China: Cooperation with Iran Transparent, Legitimate
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – China reiterated that its energy trade and cooperation with the Islamic Republic of Iran is transparent and legitimate.
"China's energy trade and cooperation with Iran and the other Middle East countries are very open, transparent and legitimate," Hua Chunying told a daily press briefing on Wednesday.
Hua's comments came in response to a question regarding China's stance on oil trade with Iran as the United States and the European Union have relaxed restrictions on oil imports from Iran since June.
Hua stressed that China's stance on the issue is both clear and consistent, Xinhua reported.
"The cooperation is mutually-beneficial. It doesn't undermine any other party's interests or violate China's international obligations," Hua said.
Annual trade between Iran and China could reach US$38 billion by the end of the current Iranian calendar year ending March 20, 2014, said Iran-China Joint Chamber of Commerce chairman Asadollah Asgaroladi on December 12.
Bilateral trade stood at US$$27.5 billion in the first eight months of the current year (ending Nov 21) Asgaroladi siad.
