Heading a high-ranking defense delegation, Iranian Defense Minister Brigadier General Hossein Dehqan met with his Chinese counterpart Chang Wanquan in Beijing on Monday to discuss various issues of bilateral, regional and international importance.

During the meeting, Dehqan hailed “longstanding” and “historical” relations between Iran and China in different political, economic, cultural and industrial spheres.

Dehqan also called for closer defense and security cooperation between the two countries, stressing that the enhancement of Tehran-Beijing military ties can allay mutual concerns over the dangers of extremism, terrorism, drug smuggling and piracy in the region.

He pointed to Iranian President Hassan Rouhani’s proposal for a World Against Violence and Extremism (WAVE) and said the proposal can help overcome the challenges posed by extremism and terrorism.

On September 24, 2013, President Rouhani called for a world against violence and extremism during his speech at the 68th Session of the UN General Assembly in New York

The Iranian minister also underlined the need for the establishment of a Middle East free from nuclear weapons, adding the international community must seriously pursue the disarmament of the “adventurist” and “warmonger” regime in Israel.

Chang, for his part, expressed satisfaction with Dehqan’s visit to Beijing and said the trip is a valuable opportunity for the two countries to strengthen their defense cooperation.

The Chinese defense minister also stated that his country is keen to bolster relations with the Islamic Republic in all areas.

Iran and China share common views on many significant security and political issues facing the region and the world, said Chang, adding that Beijing considers Tehran as a strategic partner.

RA/NJF