According to the NYT, which has reviewed an 18-page draft of the agreement, China and Iran would launch joint training exercises, joint research and weapons development and intelligence sharing. “It is a long-term strategic partnership agreement with energy, economic, logistical and military aspects. Iran and China will be enmeshed — two countries under extraordinary and sustained American pressure found comfort with each other,” said Mr. Ahmad. China continued to buy Iranian oil over the past year even after the U.S. sanctions waivers expired in May 2019, although in smaller volumes. Under their partnership agreement, China is likely to play a role in Chabahar’s duty-free zone and in the port.

Source: The Hindu July 14, 2020 14:15 UTC