ABSTRACT
This chapter shows how Iran fits into China's counter-hegemonic foreign policy, historically and currently. It examines how Chinese policymakers have sought to accommodate United States (US) pressure over the nuclear issue without completely sacrificing China's ties to Iran. The chapter also shows how Chinese perceptions of America's relative decline and of Washington's evolving posture toward both the People's Republic and the Islamic Republic are affecting Beijing's approach to Sino-Iranian relations. It further explores Tehran's shifting calculations about relations with China. The chapter finally explains the future trends in Sino-Iranian ties and their ramifications for America's position in the Middle East and vis-a-vis the international economic order. From Beijing's perspective, Tehran has been and remains a partner in preventing consolidation of US footholds in Central Asia, promoting regional economic integration, and combating radicalized Sunni extremism.
