Chinese and Iranian cooperation thwarts US ‘maximum pressure’ campaigns

By Dennis Etler

The meeting of Iranian Minister of Foreign Affairs Mohammad Javad Zarif with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in the Chinese province of Yunnan bodes well for the future of Sino-Iranian relations.

Since the end of WW2 both China and Iran have been targets of Western colonialism and imperialism. The US hegemonists have sought to destabilize both nations by encircling them with military bases, promoting political subversion and engaging in economic warfare. It is only natural that Iran and China see themselves as comrades-in-arms in their struggle to protect their sovereignty and independence.

Under the Trump Administration, both have suffered from maximum pressure campaigns meant to force them to concede to Washington’s demands. Trump’s tactics have scuttled international agreements and contravene international norms. US actions have been condemned by peace and freedom-loving people and nations all over the world.

Both Iran and China share a common experience of resistance to foreign domination that has not only strengthened their resolve but fortified their friendship. It is in their common interest to develop their ties in a comprehensive and constructive manner. The meeting in Yunnan is a major step in that direction.

FM Zarif in China to further expand 'strategic partnership'

Iran’s Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif arrives in China for an official visit at the invitation of his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi.

The forthcoming November elections in the US will have a significant impact on both Sino-American and Iranian-American relations. A Trump win may signal a continuation of the current policies toward both. Neither Iran nor China can put any trust in what Trump or his representatives say as they have constantly gone back on their word. The only sound policy is to prepare for the worse when dealing with them.

If the Democrats retake the White House there is a greater prospect of a return to the policies of the previous Obama administration. American tactics may change but the strategic goal of containing Iranian and Chinese influence, both regionally and globally, will remain the same.

Being ancient and proud civilizations that have made sterling contributions to human progress throughout the centuries, it is no wonder that the two nations share a common bond of friendship and support each other's efforts for national rejuvenation and a multipolar world.

The two countries are united by mutual respect and shared admiration for each other's fine cultural traditions and a common desire for peace, development, and security. It is on this firm foundation that Sino-Iranian ties will continue to grow in strength and flourish over the coming decades.

US 'maximum pressure' campaigns boomerang

Iran, China, and Russia are uniting in their opposition to US imperialism, Professor Dennis Etler says.

*Dennis Etler is an American political analyst who has a decades-long interest in international affairs. He’s a former professor of Anthropology at Cabrillo College in Aptos, California.

He recorded this article for Press TV website.

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