The China-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Summit is of great significance for China-GCC relations, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said on Monday.

Noting that the leaders of both sides have reached important common understandings on consolidating China-GCC political mutual trust and enhancing cooperation in various fields, Wang said the development of relations between China and the GCC countries is aimed at deepening bilateral practical cooperation in various sectors and delivering benefits to the people of both sides.

In response to comments saying that China will not neglect its relations with Iran as it develops relations with the GCC countries, Wang said China and Iran enjoy traditional friendship and they jointly decided to cement and grow a comprehensive strategic partnership.

"China stands ready to enhance communication and coordination with Iran to make new progress in bilateral relations," said Wang.

The two sides have signed a plan for China-Iran comprehensive cooperation, which started implementation early this year, he said, adding that China will work with Iran for the sound and steady growth of practical cooperation.

"Vice Premier Hu Chunhua's visit to Iran starts today. We believe this visit will play a positive role in deepening China-Iran comprehensive strategic partnership," the spokesperson said.

Wang said the GCC countries and Iran are all China's friends, and neither China-GCC relations nor China-Iran relations are targeted at any third party. 

China supports the GCC countries in improving relations with Iran based on the principle of good-neighborly friendship, conducting win-win cooperation with Iran and jointly promoting the development and stability in the Persian Gulf, he said, and China is willing to continue to play a constructive role in this regard.

(Cover: Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin at a regular press briefing in Beijing, China, December 12, 2022. /Chinese Foreign Ministry)