“This will cause Iran and China, which believe in their independence, power and ability, to prevent the influence and presence of the United States and those seeking to destroy independence,” he added.

Velayati further hailed his meeting with the Chinese delegation as “very valuable” and said a number of successful plans were raised in the talks.

Iran and China have close diplomatic, economic, trade and energy ties, and in recent years have developed their military relations as well.

Back in November 2016, the defense ministers of Iran and China signed an agreement in Tehran to enhance the defense cooperation between the two countries.