China’s President Xi Jinping has sent a message of condolences to Iran, mourning the death of Raisi and Amirabdollahian, according to Beijing’s Foreign Ministry.

Xi said Raisi has greatly contributed to peace and stability in Iran and played an important role in consolidating the China-Iran strategic partnership, the ministry said.

“His unfortunate passing is a big loss for the Iranian people, and China has lost a good friend,” it added.

“The Chinese government and the Chinese people cherish the friendship between China and Iran. China will continue to deepen and develop this partnership. 

China has shown great concern for this incident and pledged to support Iran in whatever way necessary.”