Amidst the somber aura in Beijing, President Xi Jinping expressed profound sorrow over the demise of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, whose life met a tragic end in a helicopter mishap. He lamented China’s loss of a valuable ally, acknowledging Raisi’s constructive endeavors in fortifying and enriching the extensive strategic alliance between their respective nations.

In a missive directed to Iran’s First Vice President Mohammad Mokhber, Xi, representing the Chinese administration and populace, conveyed heartfelt condolences and genuine commiserations to Mokhber, the kin of President Raisi, and the Iranian governance and populace, as disclosed by the Chinese Foreign Ministry.

Xi highlighted Raisi’s tenure, lauding his pivotal role in safeguarding Iran’s tranquility and prosperity while fostering national progress and affluence. Furthermore, Xi underscored Raisi’s proactive initiatives in strengthening and broadening the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Iran.

The untimely demise of Raisi resonates as a profound sorrow for the Iranian populace, and the Chinese populace also mourns the loss of a cherished comrade, Xi lamented. He emphasized the enduring significance of the time-honored amity between China and Iran, affirming that through collaborative endeavors, the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two nations will persist in its consolidation and advancement.

Raisi, aged 63, along with Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian, aged 60, and several other dignitaries, met a tragic fate on Monday, succumbing to the aftermath of a helicopter crash in a mist-laden, mountainous terrain in the northwest region of the country.