Xi congratulates Rouhani on reelection as Iranian president

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Saturday sent a congratulatory message to his Iranian counterpart Hassan Rouhani on his re-election as president, which will give him a second four-year term.

Chinese President Xi Jinping (L front) attends a grand welcome ceremony before talks with Iranian President Hassan Rouhani (R front) in Tehran, Iran, Jan. 23, 2016. [Photo: Xinhua/Ju Peng]

Xi said in the message that Iran has gained new socio-economic achievements over the past four years under Rouhani's leadership, and that the China-Iran relationship has maintained sound momentum of development thanks to the two countries' joint efforts.

Recalling his state visit to Tehran in January 2016 and the in-depth talks he had with Rouhani during the trip, Xi noted that they have reached important consensus on bilateral ties, and that the two countries have formally established comprehensive strategic partnership.

Xi added that he attaches great importance to developing the China-Iran relationship, and that he is willing to join hands with Rouhani to push forward the development of the China-Iran comprehensive strategic partnership.