Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi signalled Tehran's readiness to resume nuclear talks, saying the country’s willingness to return to the trust-building framework that underpinned the original JCPOA agreement during an extensive interview with Chinese state broadcaster CCTV on January 3.

During his first bilateral visit outside the West Asian region, Araghchi outlined Iran's position on nuclear negotiations, regional developments, and Sino-Iranian relations during a four-hour meeting with his Chinese counterpart in Beijing.

"We are prepared to enter into constructive negotiations without delay regarding our nuclear programme," Araghchi stated, emphasising that Iran's approach would mirror the original JCPOA framework. "The formula remains the same - trust-building measures regarding Iran's nuclear programme in exchange for sanctions relief."

The Iranian diplomat revealed that a second round of talks with European JCPOA signatories - Britain, France, and Germany - is scheduled within the next two weeks, following initial discussions in Geneva. Regarding US involvement, Araghchi adopted a measured stance, noting that Tehran would formulate its response after the new American administration clarified its position.

Addressing Sino-Iranian relations, Araghchi highlighted the significance of the recently signed 25-year strategic cooperation agreement between the two nations. He characterised the four-hour discussions with his Chinese counterpart as comprehensive, covering regional developments and bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors, including economic, trade, investment, cultural, and security domains.

The Foreign Minister acknowledged the challenges posed by the US withdrawal from the JCPOA in 2015, describing it as "a major strategic mistake" that prompted Iranian countermeasures. However, he maintained that diplomatic channels remain open despite regional tensions and expanded US sanctions.

"As a diplomat, I believe diplomatic solutions are achievable even under the most challenging circumstances," Araghchi stated. "The key factors are political will and diplomatic creativity to forge new pathways to agreement."

The Iranian Foreign Minister addressed recent developments in Syria, revealing that Tehran had prior intelligence about opposition groups' military preparations, which was shared with Damascus. He expressed surprise at the rapid turn of events and the Syrian army's limited resistance.

Addressing the Gaza conflict, Araghchi claimed that Israel had failed to achieve its primary objective of destroying Hamas, noting that Israel now finds itself negotiating with the very organisation it sought to eliminate.

This latest interview comes as part of a growing push by Tehran to revive the nuclear talks, including removing obstacles to financial networks and ceasing funds to groups like Hezbollah under a new executive order. 

This latest meeting is part of China's growing diplomatic role in Middle Eastern affairs amid tensions between Tehran and Western powers ahead of the impending Trump presidency on January 20.