China seeks 'new chapter' with Iran after sanctions lifted

Chinese president Xi Jinping hopes for a “new chapter” in relations with Iran after the lifting of international sanctions under a historic nuclear deal, as he paid the first visit by a Chinese leader to the Islamic Republic in 14 years.

“In co-operation with the Iranian side and by benefiting from the current favourable conditions, China is ready to upgrade the level of bilateral relations and co-operation so that a new chapter will start in bilateral relations,” Xi said after meeting Iranian president Hassan Rouhani, according to Iranian state TV.