SCO official in Iran:
China ready to invest in combined-cycle power plants in Khuzestan
The executive director of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO)’s Iran Office announced that Chinese economic agents are ready to invest in constructing combined-cycle power stations in the southwestern Iranian province of Khuzestan.
This initiative aims to address the country’s severe energy shortages while leveraging the province’s vast oil and gas reserves, contributing to sustainable energy supply and economic development in the region, IRNA reported.
On Thursday, Zhao Bin He, during a meeting with Mohammadreza Mavalizadeh, the governor-general of Khuzestan and a number of senior officials in Ahvaz, stated, “We are here to pay our respect to the province’s leadership and present the China-Iran Economic and Trade Exchange Center’s programs under the SCO framework, focusing on strengthening bilateral ties between Iran and China, especially in Khuzestan.”
He emphasized the deep historical ties between Iran and China, rooted in mutual respect, economic cooperation, cultural exchange, and long-standing partnerships.
Zhao noted the growing need for stronger collaboration between the two countries amid the Middle East’s complex challenges and significant transformations.
“Khuzestan, with its strategic location in southwestern Iran and substantial economic potential, plays a key role in advancing Iran-China relations. Its access to the Persian Gulf and proximity to the strong economies of the southern Persian Gulf states provide incomparable opportunities for developing port infrastructure and maritime transport.”
He expressed China’s readiness to actively participate in expanding Khuzestan’s infrastructure, particularly in port development.
The official also highlighted opportunities for collaboration in energy, industry, and agriculture.
Furthermore, Zhao announced China’s willingness to assist in developing the province’s sports infrastructure as he praised Iran’s remarkable scientific, economic, and political progress despite sanctions, attributing these achievements to the determination and capabilities of its people.
To strengthen ties, he proposed a sister-state partnership between Khuzestan and Shandong Province of China, a region renowned for its economic and industrial advancements, noting, “Such a partnership could be instrumental in Khuzestan’s growth and development.”
Joint efforts in technology transfer and experience-sharing, as Zhao explained, could enhance economic progress and bolster defense capabilities in both provinces.
“We believe that by harnessing existing capacities and fostering close cooperation between our two countries, we can achieve a brighter and more fruitful future,” Zhao said, affirming the China-Iran Economic and Trade Exchange Center’s commitment to comprehensive and enduring cooperation with Khuzestan.