Meeting Between Mayor of Sari and Chinese Ambassador Focused on Expanding Cultural, Tourism, and Investment Relations

According to the Public Relations and International Affairs Department of Sari Municipality, the meeting was also attended by Seyed Hossein Yousefi and Ali Asheghan, members of the Sari City Council.

The mayor congratulated the ambassador and the people of China on their National Day (October 1st) and expressed appreciation for China’s continued support of the Islamic Republic of Iran in international forums, especially at the United Nations, stressing the importance of maintaining bilateral cooperation.

Proposal for a Sister-City Agreement with a Chinese City

The Mayor of Sari proposed signing a sister-city agreement between Sari and a city in China, aiming to host local food festivals in both cities, promote cultural exchange, share knowledge and technology, enhance smart urban management, and attract foreign investment.

He also called for Sari’s membership in the Tourism Alliance of Silk Road Cities and noted that the necessary coordination with Iran’s Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts has already been carried out.

Chinese Ambassador Welcomes Urban Cooperation

Welcoming the proposals, the Chinese ambassador stated:

“In our previous meeting, your enthusiasm for establishing a sister-city relationship was evident, and this matter is now on our agenda. Sari has great potential, and once the target city or province is identified, the sister-city process can be facilitated.”

He added that the Chinese people are deeply interested in Iran’s ancient civilization, culture, and history, and cultural exchange between the two nations could significantly contribute to smart urban development and mutual learning.

China’s Support for a Diplomatic Solution to Iran’s Nuclear Issue

The ambassador reaffirmed China’s stance at the UN Security Council, emphasizing that “China has always supported a diplomatic solution to Iran’s nuclear issue and opposes any form of coercion. We will continue to play our role in maintaining regional peace and stability.”

The Mayor of Sari expressed gratitude for China’s support and voiced hope that the world will move toward justice, with Iran–China cooperation continuing along this path.

Official Invitation to the “Kei Pela” Local Food Festival

The mayor extended an official invitation to the Chinese ambassador and his delegation to attend the upcoming “Kei Pela” Local Food Festival, which will be held in Sari within the next month.

He stated that the festival schedule will soon be announced, adding that the ambassador’s presence would provide an excellent opportunity to further introduce the rich culture and traditions of the people of Sari.

He also invited Chinese investors to participate in urban development projects in Sari.

It is worth noting that Ambassador Zhong Pei Wu had previously met with the Mayor of Sari on 16 September 2025, during which discussions were held on cultural, economic, and urban cooperation, as well as the proposal for establishing a sister-city partnership between Sari and a Chinese city.

the Public Relations and International Affairs Department of Sari Municipality