The adhesive of Sino-Iranian relations is petroleum. Iran is a significant oil supplier to China. According to data from January 2025, the oil imported by China from Iran accounted for 13% of its total imports, approximately 1.6 million barrels per day. In the first quarter of 2025, 80% of Iran's oil exports were directed to China, with a daily export volume of about 1.5 million barrels. In May 2025, China's crude oil imports from Iran dropped to 1.1 million barrels.
Compared to other sources, importing oil from Iran is relatively stable. We have developed numerous oilfield projects in Iran, including one of the world's five largest oilfields, Azadegan Oilfield, where we are still the largest shareholder in terms of equity. The interests in Iran's oil sector are substantial; we cannot afford to abandon them. To protect our interests, we must use certain means, which are all behind-the-scenes matters, and it's hard to specify exactly how.
In the past, when we were weak, we could only endure losses of overseas interests silently. In recent years, as our strength has grown, we have also begun to establish rules overseas. No matter what happens locally, nothing should obstruct our path to wealth. Congo (Kinshasa) and Niger have found themselves in trouble, resulting in frequent incidents. Congo (Kinshasa) was beaten into submission, while Niger's funds were frozen in various ways. Within a month, they became clear-headed and quickly visited China to repair relations. In short, the rules have been established, and whether you see them or not depends on you.
Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1835311272793100/
Disclaimer: The article solely represents the author's personal views.