Iran reportedly shipped nearly 70 million barrels of crude oil worth an estimated $5-6 billion during a brief pause in US restrictions, building a financial cushion before Washington reinstated its blockade in the Strait of Hormuz. The shipments, carried out between mid-June and mid-July, are expected to generate billions in revenue for Tehran in the coming months, with much of the crude ultimately destined for China.According to a Wall Street Journal report, around 20 Iranian oil tankers began arriving off Malaysia’s eastern coast in late June after the United States temporarily lifted restrictions on Iranian shipping. Independent estimates from advocacy group United Against Nuclear Iran (UANI) and oil market analysts cited by the newspaper suggest Tehran exported roughly 70 million barrels during the one-month window. The US has since reimposed restrictions, once again limiting Iranian exports through the Strait of Hormuz.Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-targets-us-bases-in-bahrain-kuwait-and-jordan-as-conflict-in-middle-east-escalates-1784372546894"> Iran targets US bases in Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan as conflict in Middle East escalates</a><h2>Oil shipped to China</h2>Analysts say Iran relied on its long-established sanctions-evasion network to move the oil. Tankers reportedly sailed to the Eastern Outer Port Limits, an area outside Malaysia’s territorial waters, where crude was transferred at sea to other vessels using large hoses. These receiving tankers then transport the oil to private Chinese refiners, often referred to as “teapot” refineries, which purchase Iranian crude at discounted prices.Several tankers, including the Diona, Hero II, Sonia 1 and Stream, reportedly reached the Malaysian transfer zone during the period. Experts believe the sudden increase in tanker traffic reflects Tehran’s effort to maximise exports before tighter US enforcement resumed.Watch | US-Iran war: Iranian media reports US attacks on Sirik port in Hormuz Strait<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-iranian-media-reports-us-attacks-on-sirik-port-in-hormuz-strait-1784432514802/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-iranian-media-reports-us-attacks-on-sirik-port-in-hormuz-strait-1784432514802/embed</a>Charlie Brown, a Singapore-based analyst with United Against Nuclear Iran, told the outlet that Iran acted quickly to build a significant export buffer once restrictions were eased. Jonathan Panikoff, Middle East expert at the Atlantic Council, said Iran's struggling economy makes oil revenue critical, adding that the government is likely to prioritise those earnings to support its strategic objectives amid renewed tensions with the United States.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Iran exported nearly 70 million barrels of oil worth $5-6 billion during a brief US sanctions pause, with much of the crude sent to China before Washington restored restrictions.

Iran reportedly shipped nearly 70 million barrels of crude oil worth an estimated $5-6 billion during a brief pause in US restrictions, building a financial cushion before Washington reinstated its blockade in the Strait of Hormuz. The shipments, carried out between mid-June and mid-July, are expected to generate billions in revenue for Tehran in the coming months, with much of the crude ultimately destined for China. According to a Wall Street Journal report, around 20 Iranian oil tankers began arriving off Malaysia’s eastern coast in late June after the United States temporarily lifted restrictions on Iranian shipping. Independent estimates from advocacy group United Against Nuclear Iran (UANI) and oil market analysts cited by the newspaper suggest Tehran exported roughly 70 million barrels during the one-month window. The US has since reimposed restrictions, once again limiting Iranian exports through the Strait of Hormuz. Also read | Iran targets US bases in Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan as conflict in Middle East escalates Oil shipped to China Analysts say Iran relied on its long-established sanctions-evasion network to move the oil. Tankers reportedly sailed to the Eastern Outer Port Limits, an area outside Malaysia’s territorial waters, where crude was transferred at sea to other vessels using large hoses. These receiving tankers then transport the oil to private Chinese refiners, often referred to as “teapot” refineries, which purchase Iranian crude at discounted prices. Several tankers, including the Diona, Hero II, Sonia 1 and Stream, reportedly reached the Malaysian transfer zone during the period. Experts believe the sudden increase in tanker traffic reflects Tehran’s effort to maximise exports before tighter US enforcement resumed. Watch | US-Iran war: Iranian media reports US attacks on Sirik port in Hormuz Strait https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-iranian-media-reports-us-attacks-on-sirik-port-in-hormuz-strait-1784432514802/embed Charlie Brown, a Singapore-based analyst with United Against Nuclear Iran, told the outlet that Iran acted quickly to build a significant export buffer once restrictions were eased. Jonathan Panikoff, Middle East expert at the Atlantic Council, said Iran's struggling economy makes oil revenue critical, adding that the government is likely to prioritise those earnings to support its strategic objectives amid renewed tensions with the United States. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Iran exported nearly 70 million barrels of oil worth $5-6 billion during a brief US sanctions pause, with much of the crude sent to China before Washington restored restrictions.

Did Iran secretly ship 70 million barrels of oil to China? Report claims $6 billion crude exported before blockade restored

At the G7 and related diplomatic engagements, Donald Trump appears to be facing growing pushback from multiple global players, including India, China, and Iran, over key issues ranging from trade to regional security. While discussions continue on peace and economic cooperation, analysts say shifting alliances and competing interests are making negotiations more complex. India also raised concerns over the safety of its seafarers, while broader US-China tensions over supply chains and critical minerals continue to shape global geopolitics.


Donald Trump Seems to Be Facing a Pushback From India, China, and Iran

Since Operation Epic Fury began on February 28, China has taken a very careful and limited role in openly supporting Iran. On March 2, China’s foreign ministry said that the U.S. and Israeli strikes break international law, showing political support without direct involvement.There are also signs of quiet, indirect help. Ships from China carrying sodium perchlorate, a chemical used in missile fuel, are believed to have reached Iran. U.S. intelligence has warned that China may also be preparing to supply shoulder-fired rockets, which can target helicopters and low-flying aircraft.However, China has not provided major direct support like money or open military help. Instead, its biggest role is coming from an unexpected domain—space.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irgc-gunboat-fires-on-container-ship-near-oman-heavy-damage-reported-amid-strait-of-hormuz-standoff-1776845119527">IRGC gunboat fires on container ship near Oman: Heavy damage reported amid Strait of Hormuz standoff</a>As highlighted by The Economist, social media is now flooded with satellite images of the Middle East captured by Chinese satellites and shared by Chinese companies. At the same time, American firms have restricted access to their satellite data due to pressure from the Trump administration. This has cut off journalists, researchers, and analysts from getting important open information.This restriction has now become even tighter. Planet Labs, a major U.S. satellite company, moved from a 14-day delay to an indefinite blackout on April 5, 2026. This means users no longer know when or if they will get fresh images. Because of this, the global OSINT (Open Source Intelligence) community is now heavily dependent on Chinese and European satellite data.One major trigger for this shift was the Minab incident on February 28, where a Tomahawk missile strike hit a school in Iran. Chinese satellite images were later used by international journalists to prove U.S. involvement, creating global pressure. This is widely seen as one of the reasons behind the strong American reaction against what some call “space transparency.”Because of these developments, Chinese satellite images are becoming more important than ever. They show how much China has improved its Earth-observation technology, meaning satellites that capture detailed images of Earth. This also shows that the West no longer has full control over high-quality space imagery.For analysts, this creates a mixed situation. Chinese images are useful, but they also raise serious concerns about control and credibility.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-hangs-man-for-corruption-on-earth-mossad-links-what-does-that-mean-1776841879206">Iran hangs man for 'corruption on Earth,' Mossad links - What does that mean?</a>The ongoing war has become a major opportunity for Chinese satellite companies to expand globally. As noted by The Economist, expert Bill Greer says that U.S. restrictions are unintentionally helping competitors like China, because American firms are limiting themselves while others fill the gap.There is also growing evidence of direct links between Chinese satellite companies and Iran. Leaked documents from April 15 revealed that Iran’s Revolutionary Guards acquired a Chinese satellite called TEE-01B, built by Earth Eye Co. This satellite was reportedly used to help target Prince Sultan Air Base on March 14, making it a major “smoking gun” showing real operational support.China’s strength lies in its rapidly expanding satellite network. In 2025 alone, it launched over 120 Earth-observation satellites, taking its total to more than 640 satellites, second only to the United States. These satellites use cameras, radar, and radio signals to monitor Earth.In China, the difference between private companies and the government is very small, meaning many firms are closely linked to the state. For example, the Jilin-1 network, with over 100 satellites, has ties to the military and can capture images of any place on Earth every 10 minutes.In terms of technology, China and the U.S. are now almost equal. China’s Superview Neo-1 satellite can produce images as sharp as top American systems. In some areas, like how frequently satellites revisit the same location, China may even be ahead because it has more satellites.China is also advancing in processing data directly in space, which means analysing images before sending them to Earth. Experts believe this advantage will grow further, as China leads in remote sensing technologies—tools used to study Earth from space.Another key benefit is that Chinese firms are not restricted by Western “shutter control” rules, which limit what satellite images can be shared. A Dubai-based company said Chinese partners provide faster and easier access to data, without delays from strict export rules.However, Chinese companies also have their own limitations, as they operate under government control. A former U.S. intelligence officer said they only act within what the Communist Party allows.In some cases, Chinese satellite images have actually exposed damage to U.S. military equipment and Gulf energy sites, which governments might have preferred to keep hidden. This has increased transparency in certain situations.Companies like MizarVision are using artificial intelligence (AI) to improve satellite images. AI helps sharpen blurry pictures, identify objects like aircraft, and track movements over time. Even if images are unclear, AI helps analysts understand what is happening.At the same time, AI is not always accurate. Some labels may be wrong, but feedback helps improve the system. Experts can correct mistakes, and the AI learns to become more precise.This is not the first time Chinese satellite firms have supported groups opposing the U.S. In the past, CGST shared images with the Wagner Group and Houthi rebels, which could help target military assets. Even after sanctions, Chinese companies like Spacety continue to grow and attract funding.China is also moving ahead in satellite video technology. Networks like Jilin-1 and Zhuhai-1 can record videos from space, while only one American company, Planet, has similar capability. Jilin-1 even uses laser communication to send videos directly to Earth.Still, some experts remain cautious. They worry about military links, and say Chinese firms do not always respond to data requests.Earlier, many believed that more satellites would bring greater global transparency. But today, the situation is different. As more countries build their own systems, most are focused on defence and intelligence use, not public sharing.In simple terms, the world is moving towards a reality where more countries are watching each other, but less information is openly available to everyone.

Ships from China carrying sodium perchlorate, a chemical used in missile fuel, are believed to have reached Iran. US intelligence has warned that China may also be preparing to supply shoulder-fired rockets, which can target helicopters and low-flying aircraft.

Since Operation Epic Fury began on February 28, China has taken a very careful and limited role in openly supporting Iran. On March 2, China’s foreign ministry said that the U.S. and Israeli strikes break international law, showing political support without direct involvement. There are also signs of quiet, indirect help. Ships from China carrying sodium perchlorate, a chemical used in missile fuel, are believed to have reached Iran. U.S. intelligence has warned that China may also be preparing to supply shoulder-fired rockets, which can target helicopters and low-flying aircraft. However, China has not provided major direct support like money or open military help. Instead, its biggest role is coming from an unexpected domain—space. Also read | IRGC gunboat fires on container ship near Oman: Heavy damage reported amid Strait of Hormuz standoff As highlighted by The Economist, social media is now flooded with satellite images of the Middle East captured by Chinese satellites and shared by Chinese companies. At the same time, American firms have restricted access to their satellite data due to pressure from the Trump administration. This has cut off journalists, researchers, and analysts from getting important open information. This restriction has now become even tighter. Planet Labs, a major U.S. satellite company, moved from a 14-day delay to an indefinite blackout on April 5, 2026. This means users no longer know when or if they will get fresh images. Because of this, the global OSINT (Open Source Intelligence) community is now heavily dependent on Chinese and European satellite data. One major trigger for this shift was the Minab incident on February 28, where a Tomahawk missile strike hit a school in Iran. Chinese satellite images were later used by international journalists to prove U.S. involvement, creating global pressure. This is widely seen as one of the reasons behind the strong American reaction against what some call “space transparency.” Because of these developments, Chinese satellite images are becoming more important than ever. They show how much China has improved its Earth-observation technology, meaning satellites that capture detailed images of Earth. This also shows that the West no longer has full control over high-quality space imagery. For analysts, this creates a mixed situation. Chinese images are useful, but they also raise serious concerns about control and credibility. Also read | Iran hangs man for 'corruption on Earth,' Mossad links - What does that mean? The ongoing war has become a major opportunity for Chinese satellite companies to expand globally. As noted by The Economist, expert Bill Greer says that U.S. restrictions are unintentionally helping competitors like China, because American firms are limiting themselves while others fill the gap. There is also growing evidence of direct links between Chinese satellite companies and Iran. Leaked documents from April 15 revealed that Iran’s Revolutionary Guards acquired a Chinese satellite called TEE-01B, built by Earth Eye Co. This satellite was reportedly used to help target Prince Sultan Air Base on March 14, making it a major “smoking gun” showing real operational support. China’s strength lies in its rapidly expanding satellite network. In 2025 alone, it launched over 120 Earth-observation satellites, taking its total to more than 640 satellites, second only to the United States. These satellites use cameras, radar, and radio signals to monitor Earth. In China, the difference between private companies and the government is very small, meaning many firms are closely linked to the state. For example, the Jilin-1 network, with over 100 satellites, has ties to the military and can capture images of any place on Earth every 10 minutes. In terms of technology, China and the U.S. are now almost equal. China’s Superview Neo-1 satellite can produce images as sharp as top American systems. In some areas, like how frequently satellites revisit the same location, China may even be ahead because it has more satellites. China is also advancing in processing data directly in space, which means analysing images before sending them to Earth. Experts believe this advantage will grow further, as China leads in remote sensing technologies—tools used to study Earth from space. Another key benefit is that Chinese firms are not restricted by Western “shutter control” rules, which limit what satellite images can be shared. A Dubai-based company said Chinese partners provide faster and easier access to data, without delays from strict export rules. However, Chinese companies also have their own limitations, as they operate under government control. A former U.S. intelligence officer said they only act within what the Communist Party allows. In some cases, Chinese satellite images have actually exposed damage to U.S. military equipment and Gulf energy sites, which governments might have preferred to keep hidden. This has increased transparency in certain situations. Companies like MizarVision are using artificial intelligence (AI) to improve satellite images. AI helps sharpen blurry pictures, identify objects like aircraft, and track movements over time. Even if images are unclear, AI helps analysts understand what is happening. At the same time, AI is not always accurate. Some labels may be wrong, but feedback helps improve the system. Experts can correct mistakes, and the AI learns to become more precise. This is not the first time Chinese satellite firms have supported groups opposing the U.S. In the past, CGST shared images with the Wagner Group and Houthi rebels, which could help target military assets. Even after sanctions, Chinese companies like Spacety continue to grow and attract funding. China is also moving ahead in satellite video technology. Networks like Jilin-1 and Zhuhai-1 can record videos from space, while only one American company, Planet, has similar capability. Jilin-1 even uses laser communication to send videos directly to Earth. Still, some experts remain cautious. They worry about military links, and say Chinese firms do not always respond to data requests. Earlier, many believed that more satellites would bring greater global transparency. But today, the situation is different. As more countries build their own systems, most are focused on defence and intelligence use, not public sharing. In simple terms, the world is moving towards a reality where more countries are watching each other, but less information is openly available to everyone.

Ships from China carrying sodium perchlorate, a chemical used in missile fuel, are believed to have reached Iran. US intelligence has warned that China may also be preparing to supply shoulder-fired rockets, which can target helicopters and low-flying aircraft.

How Beijing’s satellites are winning the Iran war

A ‘cause and effect’ analysis has suggested that President Donald Trump may have indirectly hit China through the US joint military operations with Israel targeting Iran, as the Asian giant now stands to lose another source of cheap oil. This is the second such blow for China, as Trump has also removed the leader of another source of fuel for China, namely Venezuela. The analysis, published in Newsweek, argued that the Iran strike is part of a broader geopolitical strategy aimed not just at the Middle East, but at pressuring China, the main global adversary of the US. Both Iran and Venezuela were close friends and strategic allies of China, having supplied it with oil on favourable terms.Madi Kapparov, head of research at the London-based Centre for Information Defence and Strategies, told the website that the US objective was to “choke out the primary source of cheap oil to China”.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/did-china-s-hq-9b-fall-short-in-iran-how-us-israel-airstrikes-broke-through-tehran-s-air-defence-network-1772366608613">Did China’s HQ-9B fall short in Iran? How US–Israel airstrikes broke through Tehran’s air defence network</a><h2>How the US may have targeted China’s energy lifeline</h2>China’s energy security is central to its rivalry with the US, having bought more than 80 per cent of Iran’s shipped oil in 2025, according to analytics firm Kpler. Kapparov noted that estimates of China’s Iranian oil imports range “from 0 to 18 per cent” of its total imports, since Beijing stopped reporting Iran deliveries since 2022. Reuters news agency estimated that about 13 per cent of China’s seaborne crude came from Iran, often through covert ship-to-ship transfers, including off Malaysia.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-flying-jigsaw-with-hidden-pieces-as-us-iran-conflict-slides-on-slippery-oil-russia-and-china-remain-critical-1772531721841">A flying jigsaw with hidden pieces: As US-Iran conflict slides on slippery oil, Russia and China remain critical</a> Meanwhile, Venezuela supplied about 4 per cent of China’s oil needs until January, when the US removed its leader, Nicolas Maduro. China may have expected that Iranian imports would offset Venezuelan losses, a hope which now appears dashed.Even though China has invested heavily in coal and renewables, a military cannot run on coal or renewables, Kapparov noted. Disrupting Iranian oil supplies for China could therefore directly affect Beijing’s defence readiness.<h2>A broader ‘authoritarians’ domino effect' theory</h2>Speaking to Newsweek, Ross Babbage, CEO of Strategic Forum, suggested that the Iran strike fits into a wider strategic pattern, implying that another authoritarian leader had fallen.“The countries that have been authoritarian strongholds…are falling over. The partners that Beijing and Moscow have are reducing in number and in strategic weight,” Babbage was quoted as saying.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-intel-on-us-deployment-aids-iran-as-talks-hover-between-war-peace-1772126951959/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-intel-on-us-deployment-aids-iran-as-talks-hover-between-war-peace-1772126951959/embed</a><h2>Is China a reliable partner?</h2>Assessing the relatively slow and tepid reaction of China to US interventions in Venezuela and Iran, Babbage argued that these events raise doubts about the reliability of China as a partner. Despite grandiose rhetoric about allied regimes, he said, “when push comes to shove, what have they done to support Venezuela against the United States? The answer is they really couldn’t do anything. And I think it’s the same…with Iran.”Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Trump’s Iran strikes, just a month after Venezuela military operation, may have indirectly hit China by choking yet another source of cheap oil supplies. This could affect the energy security of China, the key adversary of the US

A ‘cause and effect’ analysis has suggested that President Donald Trump may have indirectly hit China through the US joint military operations with Israel targeting Iran, as the Asian giant now stands to lose another source of cheap oil. This is the second such blow for China, as Trump has also removed the leader of another source of fuel for China, namely Venezuela. The analysis, published in Newsweek, argued that the Iran strike is part of a broader geopolitical strategy aimed not just at the Middle East, but at pressuring China, the main global adversary of the US. Both Iran and Venezuela were close friends and strategic allies of China, having supplied it with oil on favourable terms. Madi Kapparov, head of research at the London-based Centre for Information Defence and Strategies, told the website that the US objective was to “choke out the primary source of cheap oil to China”. Also read: Did China’s HQ-9B fall short in Iran? How US–Israel airstrikes broke through Tehran’s air defence network How the US may have targeted China’s energy lifeline China’s energy security is central to its rivalry with the US, having bought more than 80 per cent of Iran’s shipped oil in 2025, according to analytics firm Kpler. Kapparov noted that estimates of China’s Iranian oil imports range “from 0 to 18 per cent” of its total imports, since Beijing stopped reporting Iran deliveries since 2022. Reuters news agency estimated that about 13 per cent of China’s seaborne crude came from Iran, often through covert ship-to-ship transfers, including off Malaysia. Also read: A flying jigsaw with hidden pieces: As US-Iran conflict slides on slippery oil, Russia and China remain critical Meanwhile, Venezuela supplied about 4 per cent of China’s oil needs until January, when the US removed its leader, Nicolas Maduro. China may have expected that Iranian imports would offset Venezuelan losses, a hope which now appears dashed. Even though China has invested heavily in coal and renewables, a military cannot run on coal or renewables, Kapparov noted. Disrupting Iranian oil supplies for China could therefore directly affect Beijing’s defence readiness. A broader ‘authoritarians’ domino effect' theory Speaking to Newsweek, Ross Babbage, CEO of Strategic Forum, suggested that the Iran strike fits into a wider strategic pattern, implying that another authoritarian leader had fallen. “The countries that have been authoritarian strongholds…are falling over. The partners that Beijing and Moscow have are reducing in number and in strategic weight,” Babbage was quoted as saying. https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-intel-on-us-deployment-aids-iran-as-talks-hover-between-war-peace-1772126951959/embed Is China a reliable partner? Assessing the relatively slow and tepid reaction of China to US interventions in Venezuela and Iran, Babbage argued that these events raise doubts about the reliability of China as a partner. Despite grandiose rhetoric about allied regimes, he said, “when push comes to shove, what have they done to support Venezuela against the United States? The answer is they really couldn’t do anything. And I think it’s the same…with Iran.” Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Trump’s Iran strikes, just a month after Venezuela military operation, may have indirectly hit China by choking yet another source of cheap oil supplies. This could affect the energy security of China, the key adversary of the US&nbsp;

Did Trump also hit China via Iran strikes? Cheap oil sources choked for the second time after Venezuela

Strait of hormuz is a vital oil trade route between oman and iran, carrying 25 per cent of global oil. nations like China, India, Japan, and South Korea heavily depend on it. any disruption can spike prices and affect global energy security.


Strait of Hormuz: Top 5 countries that would be most impacted due to closure

Did you know that China was actively involved in the Iranian nuclear programme, which has faced bombardment by Israel and the US in recent days? China had been helping Iran build its vast nuclear programme for decades. It provided the Islamic Republic with technical, and economic aid to help develop its nuclear capabilities.<h2>The China link to Iran's nuclear programme goes back to 1980s</h2>Since the formation of the Islamic Republic after the revolution of 1979, China has been helping Iran with its nuclear efforts. The help was given in building a research nuclear reactor and supplying at least four additional research reactors. China aided Iran in building a uranium hexafluoride enrichment plant near Isfahan. In theory, this could help Iran produce material for nuclear weapons.<h2>Chinese nuclear technology transfers to Iran</h2>China had given nuclear technology transfers to Iran as recently as 2000s. Note that this was around the time that the Amad Project, the alleged secretive nuclear weapons programme of Iran, was exposed and officially halted. The Amad project started in 1989 and ended in 2003, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/strait-of-hormuz-handles-20-25-of-global-oil-trade-asian-markets-dip-as-gulf-tensions-escalate-1750665399251/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/strait-of-hormuz-handles-20-25-of-global-oil-trade-asian-markets-dip-as-gulf-tensions-escalate-1750665399251/embed</a>&nbsp;Under the Amad Plan, Iran allegedly acquired several foreign weapon designs and refined them to develop its own, according to a report in the Iran Watch website.&nbsp;Iran "conducted conventional explosives testing; carried out casting and machining experiments with surrogate materials; and studied how to integrate the warhead with a Shahab-3 missile," the website claimed in an article. Did these nuclear weapon blueprints have any Chinese links? We will probably never know.Nevertheless, it is fair to say that China's backing in the early days of the Islamic Republic helped it build its nuclear infrastructure.<h2>China and Iran have deep strategic ties</h2>China and Iran have a long-standing strategic relationship, cemented through a 25-year comprehensive cooperation agreement signed in 2021. It should be noted that China is a critical economic lifeline for Iran, as it buys nearly 90 per cent of Iranian oil exports.&nbsp; Many of these exports are carried out through shadow fleets to evade American and Western sanctions on Iran. That trade, according to reports, accounts for some 20 per cent of Iran’s economy. It is fair to assume that this also indirectly finances the Iranian nuclear programme. Note here that China has also supplied missile fuel components and other armaments, enhancing Iran’s military capabilities and helping its ballistic missile development.&nbsp; &nbsp;

China had given nuclear technology transfers to Iran as recently as 2000s. Note that this was around the time that the Amad Project, the alleged secretive nuclear weapons programme of Iran, was exposed and officially halted. 

Did you know that China was actively involved in the Iranian nuclear programme, which has faced bombardment by Israel and the US in recent days? China had been helping Iran build its vast nuclear programme for decades. It provided the Islamic Republic with technical, and economic aid to help develop its nuclear capabilities. The China link to Iran's nuclear programme goes back to 1980s Since the formation of the Islamic Republic after the revolution of 1979, China has been helping Iran with its nuclear efforts. The help was given in building a research nuclear reactor and supplying at least four additional research reactors. China aided Iran in building a uranium hexafluoride enrichment plant near Isfahan. In theory, this could help Iran produce material for nuclear weapons. Chinese nuclear technology transfers to Iran China had given nuclear technology transfers to Iran as recently as 2000s. Note that this was around the time that the Amad Project, the alleged secretive nuclear weapons programme of Iran, was exposed and officially halted. The Amad project started in 1989 and ended in 2003, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency. https://www.wionews.com/videos/strait-of-hormuz-handles-20-25-of-global-oil-trade-asian-markets-dip-as-gulf-tensions-escalate-1750665399251/embed Under the Amad Plan, Iran allegedly acquired several foreign weapon designs and refined them to develop its own, according to a report in the Iran Watch website. Iran "conducted conventional explosives testing; carried out casting and machining experiments with surrogate materials; and studied how to integrate the warhead with a Shahab-3 missile," the website claimed in an article. Did these nuclear weapon blueprints have any Chinese links? We will probably never know. Nevertheless, it is fair to say that China's backing in the early days of the Islamic Republic helped it build its nuclear infrastructure. China and Iran have deep strategic ties China and Iran have a long-standing strategic relationship, cemented through a 25-year comprehensive cooperation agreement signed in 2021. It should be noted that China is a critical economic lifeline for Iran, as it buys nearly 90 per cent of Iranian oil exports. Many of these exports are carried out through shadow fleets to evade American and Western sanctions on Iran. That trade, according to reports, accounts for some 20 per cent of Iran’s economy. It is fair to assume that this also indirectly finances the Iranian nuclear programme. Note here that China has also supplied missile fuel components and other armaments, enhancing Iran’s military capabilities and helping its ballistic missile development.

China helped Iran build its vast nuclear programme, all the way up to early 2000s. It provided technical knowhow and economic aid to help the Islamic Republic develop nuclear capabilities.

China hand: Did you know Chinese cooperation in Iranian nuclear programme goes back decades?

Even as the debate on ties with China is ongoing in Iran, there is a bigger potential for Tehran to have relations with India, former Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said on Tuesday.

He was responding to a question about the growing proximity between Iran and China, in an exclusive interview with WION Executive Editor Palki Sharma.

Under former president Hassan Rouhani, Iran had elevated its ties with China. A pact worth $400 billion was signed, defining the roadmap of future relations for the next 25 years.&nbsp;

Asked about this, Ahmadinejad said: “I think the potential for cooperation between Iran and India is far more than the capacity of the contract between Iran and China now being discussed.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/afghanistan-dialogues-former-iran-prez-mahmoud-ahmadinejad-speaks-to-wion-on-afghan-crisis-411575">WATCH |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/afghanistan-dialogues-former-iran-prez-mahmoud-ahmadinejad-speaks-to-wion-on-afghan-crisis-411575/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

“It is the best for nations to have relations with each

other and utilise the maximum potential. But I believe that the capacity that exists between Iran and India is much higher than relationships with other countries.”

Asked how Iran-China ties &nbsp;will affect other partners like India, Ahmedinejad said there’s been a lot of debate over China, “and it is ongoing.”

"As I said before, with any agreement justice and respect should be observed. The rights of the two parties should be balanced. Regarding the China deal, no clear information has been published in Iran, that is why Iranian people look at it with doubt."

Noting the deep cultural linkages that exist between India and Iran, the former president said there are a lot of potential areas of cooperation.

“The volume of communications we have today, compared to the potential and common interests, is extremely small," said Ahmadinejad, who launched the proposed ‘peace pipeline’ between India and Iran when he was president.

“As a fundamental strategy, we need to do our best to ensure that we utilise the maximum available capacity.”

“We love the people of India very much. When we travel to India, we feel we are at home,” he said, adding. “The people of India are extremely lovely. They are so kind. There’s cultural proximity shared among the two nations.”

Asked if the new administration of incoming president Ebrahim Raisi is going to take forward ties with India, Ahmadinejad said, &nbsp;“that’s the strategy that the two countries need to pursue and there is no other way except this.”

Part of the interview will air on WION on Tuesday at 3:30 PM GMT.

<o:p></o:p>

Even as the debate on ties with China is ongoing in Iran, there is a bigger potential for Tehran to have relations with India, former Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said on Tuesday.

Even as the debate on ties with China is ongoing in Iran, there is a bigger potential for Tehran to have relations with India, former Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said on Tuesday. He was responding to a question about the growing proximity between Iran and China, in an exclusive interview with WION Executive Editor Palki Sharma. Under former president Hassan Rouhani, Iran had elevated its ties with China. A pact worth $400 billion was signed, defining the roadmap of future relations for the next 25 years. Asked about this, Ahmadinejad said: “I think the potential for cooperation between Iran and India is far more than the capacity of the contract between Iran and China now being discussed.” WATCH | “It is the best for nations to have relations with each other and utilise the maximum potential. But I believe that the capacity that exists between Iran and India is much higher than relationships with other countries.” Asked how Iran-China ties will affect other partners like India, Ahmedinejad said there’s been a lot of debate over China, “and it is ongoing.” "As I said before, with any agreement justice and respect should be observed. The rights of the two parties should be balanced. Regarding the China deal, no clear information has been published in Iran, that is why Iranian people look at it with doubt." Noting the deep cultural linkages that exist between India and Iran, the former president said there are a lot of potential areas of cooperation. “The volume of communications we have today, compared to the potential and common interests, is extremely small," said Ahmadinejad, who launched the proposed ‘peace pipeline’ between India and Iran when he was president. “As a fundamental strategy, we need to do our best to ensure that we utilise the maximum available capacity.” “We love the people of India very much. When we travel to India, we feel we are at home,” he said, adding. “The people of India are extremely lovely. They are so kind. There’s cultural proximity shared among the two nations.” Asked if the new administration of incoming president Ebrahim Raisi is going to take forward ties with India, Ahmadinejad said, “that’s the strategy that the two countries need to pursue and there is no other way except this.” Part of the interview will air on WION on Tuesday at 3:30 PM GMT.

Exclusive: India has more potential than China for ties with Iran: Former Iranian prez Mahmoud Ahmadinejad

China on Thursday pledged that it will&nbsp;safeguard the Iran nuclear deal and defend the legitimate interests of Sino-Iranian relations.

Ministry of commerce spokesman&nbsp;Gao Feng told a news briefing in response to a question from the media that&nbsp;China&nbsp;has not received notices of sanctions on Iranian oil from the Biden administration.

China's comments came after&nbsp;reports surfaced&nbsp;that Iran has "indirectly" moved record volumes of oil into&nbsp;China&nbsp;in recent months, marked as supplies from Oman, the UAE and Malaysia, even as&nbsp;China&nbsp;customs data showed that no Iranian oil was imported in the first two months this year.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/time-running-out-for-us-to-revive-nuclear-deal-irans-foreign-minister-370705">Time running out for US to revive nuclear deal: Iran's Foreign Minister&nbsp;</a>

The increase in Iranian supplies has partly contributed to a drop in Brent crude prices from $70 a barrel in mid-March.&nbsp;

Iran's supreme leader on Sunday reiterated the Islamic republic's "definite policy" that Washington must lift all sanctions before Tehran returns to its commitments under a 2015 nuclear deal.

The deal was meant to provide&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;with international sanctions relief in exchange for limitations on its controversial nuclear programme.

But it has been on life-support ever since former US president Donald Trump withdrew from it in 2018 and reimposed sanctions as part of a "maximum pressure" campaign against Tehran.

Joe Biden, who defeated Trump at the ballot box in November, has signalled his readiness to revive the accord, but his administration insists&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;must first return to its nuclear commitments, most of which Tehran has suspended in response to US sanctions.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-iran-beef-up-military-activity-in-gulf-ahead-of-soleimanis-first-death-anniversary-354027">US, Iran beef up military activity in Gulf ahead of Soleimani's first death anniversary</a>

The United States and the other Western powers that signed up to the 2015 deal appear to be at odds with Tehran over which side should return to the accord first, making it unlikely that US&nbsp;sanctions which have crippled Iran's economy can be quickly removed.

However, the OPEC member's oil exports climbed in January after a boost in the fourth quarter, despite US&nbsp;sanctions, in a sign that the end of Donald Trump's term as US&nbsp;president may be changing buyer behaviour.

Iranian crude oil exports remain at elevated levels in March compared to last year, tanker tracker Petro-Logistics said on Tuesday, adding to signs of a recovery in the shipments.

The sanctions caused a precipitous drop in Iranian exports to&nbsp;China, India, Japan and South Korea since late 2018. Those measures, and output cuts by fellow OPEC+ producers, have led to tight supplies of Middle East sour crude in Asia, the top global oil market. Asia imports more than half of its crude from the Middle East.

China on Thursday pledged that it will safeguard the Iran nuclear deal and defend the legitimate interests of Sino-Iranian relations. Ministry of commerce spokesman Gao Feng told a news briefing in response to a question from the media that China has not received notices of sanctions on Iranian oil from the Biden administration.

China on Thursday pledged that it will safeguard the Iran nuclear deal and defend the legitimate interests of Sino-Iranian relations. Ministry of commerce spokesman Gao Feng told a news briefing in response to a question from the media that China has not received notices of sanctions on Iranian oil from the Biden administration. China's comments came after reports surfaced that Iran has "indirectly" moved record volumes of oil into China in recent months, marked as supplies from Oman, the UAE and Malaysia, even as China customs data showed that no Iranian oil was imported in the first two months this year. Also read| Time running out for US to revive nuclear deal: Iran's Foreign Minister The increase in Iranian supplies has partly contributed to a drop in Brent crude prices from $70 a barrel in mid-March. Iran's supreme leader on Sunday reiterated the Islamic republic's "definite policy" that Washington must lift all sanctions before Tehran returns to its commitments under a 2015 nuclear deal. The deal was meant to provide Iran with international sanctions relief in exchange for limitations on its controversial nuclear programme. But it has been on life-support ever since former US president Donald Trump withdrew from it in 2018 and reimposed sanctions as part of a "maximum pressure" campaign against Tehran. Joe Biden, who defeated Trump at the ballot box in November, has signalled his readiness to revive the accord, but his administration insists Iran must first return to its nuclear commitments, most of which Tehran has suspended in response to US sanctions. Also read| US, Iran beef up military activity in Gulf ahead of Soleimani's first death anniversary The United States and the other Western powers that signed up to the 2015 deal appear to be at odds with Tehran over which side should return to the accord first, making it unlikely that US sanctions which have crippled Iran's economy can be quickly removed. However, the OPEC member's oil exports climbed in January after a boost in the fourth quarter, despite US sanctions, in a sign that the end of Donald Trump's term as US president may be changing buyer behaviour. Iranian crude oil exports remain at elevated levels in March compared to last year, tanker tracker Petro-Logistics said on Tuesday, adding to signs of a recovery in the shipments. The sanctions caused a precipitous drop in Iranian exports to China, India, Japan and South Korea since late 2018. Those measures, and output cuts by fellow OPEC+ producers, have led to tight supplies of Middle East sour crude in Asia, the top global oil market. Asia imports more than half of its crude from the Middle East.

China vows to defend Sino-Iran ties, safeguard nuclear deal

Iran's Chabahar port is the only deep seaport and India's gateway to central Asia. The port was inaugurated in 2017, it not only side-stepped Pakistan but also counter-balanced the Chinese-controlled Gwadar port.

India had an ambitious plan - offload shipments in Chabahar, load them on trucks and trains, send them to Zahedan in Iran, go further to Zarang in Afghanistan and take the goods to the central Asian republics.

For this plan to be successful, India needed to develop better connectivity to the port - enter the Chabahar-Zahedan railway line, the 628-km-long track connecting the port to Zahedan.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-india-dropped-from-the-chabahar-railway-project-313321/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

India and Iran had agreed to jointly construct the railway line with 34 stations estimated to ferry 2.8 million tonnes of freight per year. The deal was reached in 2016&nbsp;during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Iran. Four years on, Tehran has thrown New Delhi out of the project. It now wants to construct the railway&nbsp;line alone. Reports claim that Iran has already inaugurated the track-laying process.

Tehran claims New Delhi has been delaying funding. The project was being stalled because of US sanctions on Iran, although it was waived in 2018 but finding suppliers and partners continued to remain a challenge as banks too were reluctant to provide loans.

Iran is now constructing the railway line alone. It wants to complete the project by 2022. It is a big roadblock in India's strategic ambitions in central Asia. It loses its influence in the trade corridor and it is a setback for India's bigger plan since the railroad was supposed to be a transit corridor to Afghanistan after connecting Chabahar to Zahedan, the railroad was to be linked to Zaranj in Afghanistan.

The plan may now need a rethink. The loss is diplomatic too. It is a sign of Iran losing confidence in India.

India's loss is China's gain. The development comes at a time when China is finalising a $400 billion strategic partnership deal with Iran. Not surprising given the two countries have a common enemy - the United States.

Beijing is set to gain from Chabahar development. Firstly, it will ensure a tighter grip over Iran which is a country with a population of 80 million with 60 per cent people under 30.

Secondly, Chabahar's loss is Gwadar's gain. The two ports are just 172 km away. Gwadar already has better connectivity, and China is unlikely to be shy of promoting it as the go-to port for trading with central Asia.

Also, by kicking India out of a project in Iran, China gets to poison one more of India's allies and China gets to carve its way into trying to influence the affairs in Chabahar.

India must learn from the episode. New Delhi cannot take its allies for granted especially when the expansionist Dragon is on the loose and desperate.

Iran's Chabahar port is the only deep seaport and India's gateway to central Asia. The port was inaugurated in 2017, it not only side-stepped Pakistan but also counter-balanced the Chinese-controlled Gwadar port.

Iran's Chabahar port is the only deep seaport and India's gateway to central Asia. The port was inaugurated in 2017, it not only side-stepped Pakistan but also counter-balanced the Chinese-controlled Gwadar port. India had an ambitious plan - offload shipments in Chabahar, load them on trucks and trains, send them to Zahedan in Iran, go further to Zarang in Afghanistan and take the goods to the central Asian republics. For this plan to be successful, India needed to develop better connectivity to the port - enter the Chabahar-Zahedan railway line, the 628-km-long track connecting the port to Zahedan. India and Iran had agreed to jointly construct the railway line with 34 stations estimated to ferry 2.8 million tonnes of freight per year. The deal was reached in 2016 during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Iran. Four years on, Tehran has thrown New Delhi out of the project. It now wants to construct the railway line alone. Reports claim that Iran has already inaugurated the track-laying process. Tehran claims New Delhi has been delaying funding. The project was being stalled because of US sanctions on Iran, although it was waived in 2018 but finding suppliers and partners continued to remain a challenge as banks too were reluctant to provide loans. Iran is now constructing the railway line alone. It wants to complete the project by 2022. It is a big roadblock in India's strategic ambitions in central Asia. It loses its influence in the trade corridor and it is a setback for India's bigger plan since the railroad was supposed to be a transit corridor to Afghanistan after connecting Chabahar to Zahedan, the railroad was to be linked to Zaranj in Afghanistan. The plan may now need a rethink. The loss is diplomatic too. It is a sign of Iran losing confidence in India. India's loss is China's gain. The development comes at a time when China is finalising a $400 billion strategic partnership deal with Iran. Not surprising given the two countries have a common enemy - the United States. Beijing is set to gain from Chabahar development. Firstly, it will ensure a tighter grip over Iran which is a country with a population of 80 million with 60 per cent people under 30. Secondly, Chabahar's loss is Gwadar's gain. The two ports are just 172 km away. Gwadar already has better connectivity, and China is unlikely to be shy of promoting it as the go-to port for trading with central Asia. Also, by kicking India out of a project in Iran, China gets to poison one more of India's allies and China gets to carve its way into trying to influence the affairs in Chabahar. India must learn from the episode. New Delhi cannot take its allies for granted especially when the expansionist Dragon is on the loose and desperate.

Iran ignores India, starts work on Chabahar-Zahedan railway project

Recent murmurs of Iran and China negotiating a long-term partnership agreement which encompasses a comprehensive trade and security dimensions will mark a significant geopolitical shift not only for the countries involved but also for the wider region.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The deal whose details are yet to come out in the public domain should send alarm bells ringing specially in the regions capitals, as well as, the US. Over the past few years, China through its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has been trying to secure its global supply chains as well as enter new markets for its products, although off late that effort has hit a significant road-block due to concerns over levels of debt accrued by the participating country and subsequent taking over the projects by the Chinese firms.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The proposed agreement would vastly expand Chinese presence in banking, telecommunications, ports, railways and dozens of other projects. Majority of these sectors of the Iranian Economy are in desperate need of an upgrade as they have been reeling under US-led economic sanctions over its nuclear program. The much-touted Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) which had brought some hope to the Iranians but its subsequent revocation by the current US administration has further strengthened the anti-west faction within the country.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Isolation of Iran by the western countries, especially the US, has forced the Iranians to forge a new alliance of sorts with the Chinese who have economic might and are increasingly looking to expand their influence in the region forging a win-win alliance of sorts for the two countries. US withdrawal from the region has created an opportunity for its rivals Russia &amp; China to make inroads in the region. Of the two major powers, China with its economic capacity has an upper hand. China has significantly increased its economic, political, and – to a lesser extent – security footprint in the Middle East in the past decade, becoming the biggest trade partner and external investor for many countries in the region.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Chinese have made significant investments in Israel, Saudi Arabia and other countries and is now getting increasingly involved politically to secure its investments, the biggest example of this has to be Chinese involvement in Afghanistan post US forces withdrawal and subsequent deal with the Taliban, Beijing has been actively enhancing its contacts and possibly building robust relations with the Afghan government in Kabul and the Taliban, which are going to have an impact on the relations between its longstanding ally Pakistan and Afghanistan. China is underpinning its diplomacy with the prospects of greater trade and investment in the impoverished country. Deal with Iran is going to further give impetus to this arrangement as all the concerned countries share the boundaries.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Having a foothold through its investments in Iran will provide a strategic advantage to the Chinese that may ultimately diminish the importance of Gwadar, the much-hyped port of the CPEC project in Pakistan but is currently running in heavy losses and faces threats due to Baloch insurgency in the Baluchistan region of Pakistan where it's situated.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Access to a port in the Persian Gulf will be of huge strategic importance for the Chinese as after building a strategic post in Djibouti having a post in Strait of Hormuz will be much significant and they could practically keep an eye on US base in Manama. Chinese have been building a series of ports in strategically important locations across the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). China has also stepped up military cooperation with Iran. The People’s Liberation Army Navy has visited and participated in military exercises at least three times, beginning in 2014. The question would be would Iran be providing access to a new location or will it give access to the Chinese in the Chabahar port region. In case it's Chabahar, it does not bode well for India, as it will clearly hamstring their regional ambitions as well as access to Afghanistan, India has been using the port to circumvent Pakistan and establish a secure trade route. &nbsp;

The Iran deal for China is of great significance in the post-US Taliban deal. The scenario in Afghanistan is fluid and it cannot be ascertained as to in which direction its relationship with India is going to be impacted. India had not been part of the talks between the Taliban and the stakeholders in Afghanistan despite having sizable investments in post-war Afghanistan. This has made India vulnerable to the changing power dynamics within the country, and with the China factor in play, it may appear that may lose influence in another neighborhood country to its Asian rival.&nbsp;&nbsp;

China in the past had competed with India for a foothold on the Chabahar project, but now it seems they will prevail as Indian response to the project has been lackluster and India’s own relations with the US has had its fallout on the India-Iran relations and lately, it has been a cause of concern in the bilateral relationship. The silence of Iran in the ongoing border dispute between India and China also point out the changing dynamics between the two countries.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In addition, the port access to the Chinese will provide them with access to the potential INSTC (International North-South Transport Corridor) which provides trade connectivity from Russia to the Persian Gulf via different trades routes. China which has a close economic partnership with other regional countries of Central Asia and Russia, it helps them as well as Iranians to monetize the benefits of the Corridor at a much rapid pace.&nbsp;

Deal with China is also going to strengthen Iran’s hand in the regions power dynamics, Tehran considers itself to be as a pivotal power in the region. Historically, the Faultlines between Iran and Saudi Arabia for the influence in the region may see revived competition as Iran starts to reap economic benefits from the Deal, however, it would be interesting to see whether in case of a regional conflict how the Chinese are going to react as they have refrained in the past in getting involved in conflicts often taking a contrary position to that of the other members of UNSC and has stood by Iran.&nbsp;

In wake of the fall in global oil prices and domestic pressure in the post Arab spring world, it has become more imperative for the regional countries to look out for investment opportunities from different countries and engaging with the Chinese gives them that opportunity to keep concerns related to rights and calls for democracy at bay while providing a better quality of life to their citizens, in essence, a win-win scenario for the oppressive regimes of the region and China.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Recent murmurs of Iran and China negotiating a long-term partnership agreement which encompasses a comprehensive trade and security dimensions will mark a significant geopolitical shift not only for the countries involved but also for the wider region.

Recent murmurs of Iran and China negotiating a long-term partnership agreement which encompasses a comprehensive trade and security dimensions will mark a significant geopolitical shift not only for the countries involved but also for the wider region. The deal whose details are yet to come out in the public domain should send alarm bells ringing specially in the regions capitals, as well as, the US. Over the past few years, China through its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has been trying to secure its global supply chains as well as enter new markets for its products, although off late that effort has hit a significant road-block due to concerns over levels of debt accrued by the participating country and subsequent taking over the projects by the Chinese firms. The proposed agreement would vastly expand Chinese presence in banking, telecommunications, ports, railways and dozens of other projects. Majority of these sectors of the Iranian Economy are in desperate need of an upgrade as they have been reeling under US-led economic sanctions over its nuclear program. The much-touted Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) which had brought some hope to the Iranians but its subsequent revocation by the current US administration has further strengthened the anti-west faction within the country. Isolation of Iran by the western countries, especially the US, has forced the Iranians to forge a new alliance of sorts with the Chinese who have economic might and are increasingly looking to expand their influence in the region forging a win-win alliance of sorts for the two countries. US withdrawal from the region has created an opportunity for its rivals Russia & China to make inroads in the region. Of the two major powers, China with its economic capacity has an upper hand. China has significantly increased its economic, political, and – to a lesser extent – security footprint in the Middle East in the past decade, becoming the biggest trade partner and external investor for many countries in the region. Chinese have made significant investments in Israel, Saudi Arabia and other countries and is now getting increasingly involved politically to secure its investments, the biggest example of this has to be Chinese involvement in Afghanistan post US forces withdrawal and subsequent deal with the Taliban, Beijing has been actively enhancing its contacts and possibly building robust relations with the Afghan government in Kabul and the Taliban, which are going to have an impact on the relations between its longstanding ally Pakistan and Afghanistan. China is underpinning its diplomacy with the prospects of greater trade and investment in the impoverished country. Deal with Iran is going to further give impetus to this arrangement as all the concerned countries share the boundaries. Having a foothold through its investments in Iran will provide a strategic advantage to the Chinese that may ultimately diminish the importance of Gwadar, the much-hyped port of the CPEC project in Pakistan but is currently running in heavy losses and faces threats due to Baloch insurgency in the Baluchistan region of Pakistan where it's situated. Access to a port in the Persian Gulf will be of huge strategic importance for the Chinese as after building a strategic post in Djibouti having a post in Strait of Hormuz will be much significant and they could practically keep an eye on US base in Manama. Chinese have been building a series of ports in strategically important locations across the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). China has also stepped up military cooperation with Iran. The People’s Liberation Army Navy has visited and participated in military exercises at least three times, beginning in 2014. The question would be would Iran be providing access to a new location or will it give access to the Chinese in the Chabahar port region. In case it's Chabahar, it does not bode well for India, as it will clearly hamstring their regional ambitions as well as access to Afghanistan, India has been using the port to circumvent Pakistan and establish a secure trade route. The Iran deal for China is of great significance in the post-US Taliban deal. The scenario in Afghanistan is fluid and it cannot be ascertained as to in which direction its relationship with India is going to be impacted. India had not been part of the talks between the Taliban and the stakeholders in Afghanistan despite having sizable investments in post-war Afghanistan. This has made India vulnerable to the changing power dynamics within the country, and with the China factor in play, it may appear that may lose influence in another neighborhood country to its Asian rival. China in the past had competed with India for a foothold on the Chabahar project, but now it seems they will prevail as Indian response to the project has been lackluster and India’s own relations with the US has had its fallout on the India-Iran relations and lately, it has been a cause of concern in the bilateral relationship. The silence of Iran in the ongoing border dispute between India and China also point out the changing dynamics between the two countries. In addition, the port access to the Chinese will provide them with access to the potential INSTC (International North-South Transport Corridor) which provides trade connectivity from Russia to the Persian Gulf via different trades routes. China which has a close economic partnership with other regional countries of Central Asia and Russia, it helps them as well as Iranians to monetize the benefits of the Corridor at a much rapid pace. Deal with China is also going to strengthen Iran’s hand in the regions power dynamics, Tehran considers itself to be as a pivotal power in the region. Historically, the Faultlines between Iran and Saudi Arabia for the influence in the region may see revived competition as Iran starts to reap economic benefits from the Deal, however, it would be interesting to see whether in case of a regional conflict how the Chinese are going to react as they have refrained in the past in getting involved in conflicts often taking a contrary position to that of the other members of UNSC and has stood by Iran. In wake of the fall in global oil prices and domestic pressure in the post Arab spring world, it has become more imperative for the regional countries to look out for investment opportunities from different countries and engaging with the Chinese gives them that opportunity to keep concerns related to rights and calls for democracy at bay while providing a better quality of life to their citizens, in essence, a win-win scenario for the oppressive regimes of the region and China. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Iran-China comprehensive agreement and its regional implications

China remains determined to maintain strategic ties with Iran regardless of regional tensions in the Middle East, its president has said, ahead of Saudi Arabia crown prince's two-day China trip that began Thursday.

In a statement, the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs Thursday said that President Xi Jinping met the speaker of Iran's parliament, Ali Larijani, and told him that his desire to develop close ties with the Islamic republic remained unchanged.

"Regardless of how the international and regional situation develops China's determination to develop a deep strategic link with Iran will remain unchanged," Xi told Larijani, according to the statement.

Xi met with Larijani at the Great Hall of the People on Wednesday and pledged to play a constructive role in maintaining regional peace and stability, the statement said.

The Chinese president said that Beijing was willing to maintain close communication and coordination with Iran on regional issues.

Larijani highlighted Iran's intention to strengthen mutual trust, promote pragmatic cooperation and mutual support on international and regional issues, according to the statement.

China is part of the group of countries - along with Russia, France, the United Kingdom and Germany - that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-to-maintain-trade-with-iran-despite-us-nuclear-deal-pullout-146109">continue to support the 2015 nuclear agreement</a> with Iran after the United States withdrew the deal last year.

The statement came hours before Xi meets with the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Mohamed bin Salman, in Beijing.

The prince, who arrived in China after his <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/crown-prince-visit-pakistan-needs-saudi-arabias-crutches-to-survive-but-india-doesnt-198700">India and Pakistan trip as part</a> of Saudi Arabia's look east efforts, will also meet with first Vice Premier Han Zheng. The two will chair the third meeting of the joint high-level bilateral committee between the two countries.

Bin Salman's visit comes amid growing tensions between Riyadh and Tehran.

The two regional rivals, vying for supremacy in the Middle East since 1979, have not maintained diplomatic relations after January 2016. This has partly prevented Beijing from sustaining a balanced equation between the two powers in the oil-rich region.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang said in a press conference last week that China would continue strengthening bilateral cooperation with Saudi Arabia.

Geng said China and Saudi Arabia maintain deep political confidence and cooperation in fields such as energy and infrastructure as well as the Belt and Road Initiative, the multi-billion dollar infrastructure initiative also known as New Silk Road.

In recent years, the Chinese president has led a policy of increasing its global influence in strategic regions, such as Africa, Latin America and the Middle East, where it seeks to strengthen its presence.

China remains determined to maintain strategic ties with Iran regardless of regional tensions in the Middle East, its president has said, ahead of Saudi Arabia crown prince's two-day China trip that began Thursday.

China remains determined to maintain strategic ties with Iran regardless of regional tensions in the Middle East, its president has said, ahead of Saudi Arabia crown prince's two-day China trip that began Thursday. In a statement, the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs Thursday said that President Xi Jinping met the speaker of Iran's parliament, Ali Larijani, and told him that his desire to develop close ties with the Islamic republic remained unchanged. "Regardless of how the international and regional situation develops China's determination to develop a deep strategic link with Iran will remain unchanged," Xi told Larijani, according to the statement. Xi met with Larijani at the Great Hall of the People on Wednesday and pledged to play a constructive role in maintaining regional peace and stability, the statement said. The Chinese president said that Beijing was willing to maintain close communication and coordination with Iran on regional issues. Larijani highlighted Iran's intention to strengthen mutual trust, promote pragmatic cooperation and mutual support on international and regional issues, according to the statement. China is part of the group of countries - along with Russia, France, the United Kingdom and Germany - that continue to support the 2015 nuclear agreement with Iran after the United States withdrew the deal last year. The statement came hours before Xi meets with the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Mohamed bin Salman, in Beijing. The prince, who arrived in China after his India and Pakistan trip as part of Saudi Arabia's look east efforts, will also meet with first Vice Premier Han Zheng. The two will chair the third meeting of the joint high-level bilateral committee between the two countries. Bin Salman's visit comes amid growing tensions between Riyadh and Tehran. The two regional rivals, vying for supremacy in the Middle East since 1979, have not maintained diplomatic relations after January 2016. This has partly prevented Beijing from sustaining a balanced equation between the two powers in the oil-rich region. Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang said in a press conference last week that China would continue strengthening bilateral cooperation with Saudi Arabia. Geng said China and Saudi Arabia maintain deep political confidence and cooperation in fields such as energy and infrastructure as well as the Belt and Road Initiative, the multi-billion dollar infrastructure initiative also known as New Silk Road. In recent years, the Chinese president has led a policy of increasing its global influence in strategic regions, such as Africa, Latin America and the Middle East, where it seeks to strengthen its presence.

President Xi Jinping says ties with Iran unchanged as Saudi crown prince arrives in China

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