China and Iran expand strategic partnership into rare earth elements

China and Iran are expanding their scientific and technical cooperation to include the strategic sector of rare earth elements, specifically focusing on exploration and processing technologies. State science funding organizations from both nations have launched a joint workshop program to facilitate this research.

On the Chinese side, the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) is leading the initiative. This cooperation marks a new dimension in the bilateral relationship, occurring as Iran faces significant economic and military pressure from the United States.

Rare earth elements are critical for high-performance magnets, electronics, radar systems, aircraft, and various modern weaponry. While China currently maintains dominant global reserves and refining capacities, Iran’s geological structure—rich in iron and phosphate—suggests significant potential for rare earth deposits that have yet to be fully explored.