STUDY PEACE AND SECURITY CHINA’S GROWING ROLE IN THE MIDDLE EAST The Iranian Perspective Following the US withdrawal from the nuclear deal, Iran made its relationship with China a crucial part of its foreign policy, signing a 25-year Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2021. Iran also aims to join the Belt and Road Initiative(BRI) to boost its economy by connecting to corridors across Asia, as well as by its membership in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). Zakiyeh Yazdanshenas May 2024 Iranian officials hold different views on the Iran–China partnership. Yet, while not expecting a vast military presence, Iran welcomes China’s growing influence in the Middle East as a counterforce against US presence.