On the afternoon of October 26, 2023 local time, Premier Li Qiang of the State Council met with Iran's First Vice President Mohammad Mokhber on the sidelines of the 22nd Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of SCO Member States in Bishkek.

Li Qiang said that since the establishment of China-Iran diplomatic relations more than 50 years ago, bilateral relations have withstood the test of the fluctuating international situation and always made steady progress. President Xi Jinping and President Ebrahim Raisi met twice this year and reached a series of important common understandings. China is ready to work with Iran to follow through on the important common understandings reached by the two heads of state, enrich the dimension of the China-Iran comprehensive strategic partnership, and bring more benefits to the two peoples.

Li Qiang pointed out that China will, as always, firmly support Iran in safeguarding state sovereignty, territorial integrity and national dignity, and resolutely oppose any external interference in Iran's internal affairs. The two sides should implement the comprehensive cooperation plan between the two countries, advance Belt and Road cooperation, strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation in various fields and people-to-people and cultural exchanges including education, culture, tourism and think tanks, and work for new and sustained achievements in China-Iran cooperation. China stands ready to strengthen communication and coordination with Iran within the United Nations, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, BRICS and other multilateral mechanisms, practice true multilateralism, and safeguard the common interests of developing countries.

Mohammad Mokhber said that China is a comprehensive strategic partner of Iran and the two countries enjoy a long history of friendship. Iran appreciates China's assistance for its economic and social development, and is firmly committed to deepening Iran-China relations. Iran is willing to work with China in Belt and Road cooperation, strengthen connectivity and mutually beneficial cooperation in various fields, deepen mutual coordination within multilateral frameworks, and push for continuous and in-depth development of Iran-China relations.

Wu Zhenglong was present at the meeting.