In a meeting with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi, held in Tehran on Saturday, Zarif referred to China as the friend of hard times, saying, "We praise the stances and measures of China at the time of cruel sanctions against Iran."
The top Iranian diplomat also pointed to the 50th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations between Tehran and Beijing, adding, "Of course the history of relations between the two great civilizations of Iran and China dates back to centuries ago."
Zarif also noted that the signing of a roadmap on Iran-China comprehensive cooperation would further reinforce the bilateral relations between the two countries.
Stressing the need for the US to implement its JCPOA commitments, Zarif said the removal of anti-Iran sanctions can pave the way for the full implementation of the 2015 nuclear deal.
For his part, Wang Yi said the relations between China and Iran have grown to the level of strategic partnership, as China seeks to promote its relations with the Islamic Republic of Iran in all fields.
"The signing of the roadmap of Iran-China strategic cooperation indicates Beijing's resolve to arrange its ties (with Iran) at the highest level possible," the Chinese minister added, according to the Iranian Foreign Ministry’s website.
During the meeting, the two diplomats discussed various important issues in the bilateral relations as well as regional and international affairs.