Chinese FM expresses deep condolences over deaths of Iranian president, FM

ASTANA, May 20 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Monday expressed deep condolences over the deaths of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian during a joint press briefing with Kazakhstan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Murat Nurtleu in Astana.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said that China is deeply saddened by Iran's official confirmation that Raisi and Amir-Abdollahian lost their lives in a recent helicopter accident.

Wang expressed deep condolences and extended sincere sympathies to the families of the deceased, the Iranian government and the people of Iran.

He noted that Raisi and Amir-Abdollahian have made significant contributions to developing China-Iran relations and promoting regional friendly cooperation.

China has actively assisted in the search and rescue efforts following the accident and is ready to continue providing any necessary support to Iran, Wang said, adding that he believes that the Iranian government and people will get through this difficult time.