On December 8, 2021, Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu held a phone conversation with Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri Kani at the latter's request. Both sides had an in-depth exchange of views on the Iranian nuclear issue.

Ma Zhaoxu stressed that under the current circumstances, all parties should strive to safeguard the negotiation process, focus on outstanding issues, explore creative solutions, create a good atmosphere for negotiations and work for outcomes in the negotiations.

Bagheri said, Iran appreciates China's objective and just position and is willing to strengthen communication and coordination with China to push for progress in the Iranian nuclear negotiations.