Tehran and Beijing Can Build Shared Digital Ecosystem

Seyed Sattar Hashemi, speaking at the event attended by numerous diplomats and foreign representatives, described the 1949 founding of the PRC as the starting point of a path through which the Chinese people — grounded in millennia of civilization and rational governance — have achieved significant advances in science, technology, the economy and global peace.

Historical ties and the 25-year cooperation roadmap

Hashemi recalled the long-standing historical relations between Iran and China that trace back to the Silk Road and the deep cultural links between the two countries. He said those ties have matured into a comprehensive strategic partnership, driven by the political will of both nations to pursue major advancements and to create an enduring model of broad-based cooperation.

Referring to a recent meeting between the presidents of Iran and China, the minister characterized the encounter as a symbol of shared commitment, noting that full implementation of the 25-year cooperation program provides “a clear roadmap for the common future of Iran and China.”

Technology as a pillar of strategic partnership

The minister emphasized that technological cooperation now represents a strategic bond between the two countries. “Information and communications technology is not only the foundation of economic and social development but also a decisive factor in shaping the future global order,” Hashemi said. He argued that Iran’s substantial scientific capacity and China’s leading position in the digital economy and innovation could jointly “lay the groundwork for a shared ecosystem for the digital future of the world.”

Hashemi outlined three primary axes for this collaboration: establishing joint research and development centers, exchanging expertise in artificial intelligence, and developing secure, sustainable networks. He also highlighted the importance of connecting to the Digital Silk Road initiative, cooperating on cybersecurity, and linking innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystems to create shared markets and commercialize new technologies.

“The ICT sector must become a central pillar of the comprehensive strategic partnership between Iran and China, just as energy and transport were the arteries of development in the last century,” he said.

Alignment in multilateral institutions

The minister also expressed appreciation for China’s stewardship while chairing the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and pointed to converging approaches between Tehran and Beijing on regional and global issues. He said such alignment opens opportunities for expanded cooperation within multilateral bodies such as the SCO, BRICS and the United Nations.

Hashemi voiced Iran’s support for China’s proposed global governance initiatives, calling them a step toward achieving a more just and equitable international order.

Looking ahead, Hashemi noted two forthcoming milestones — the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Iran and China in 2026 and the tenth anniversary of their elevation to a comprehensive strategic partnership — and expressed hope these anniversaries would strengthen implementation of the 25-year cooperation program.