China and Iran should learn from each other to enhance the cooperation and exchanges on environmental protection, said a senior Chinese official in Beijing Thursday.

Vice Premier Zeng Peiyan said the Chinese government attaches importance to the environmental and ecological protection, and has taken priority to the sustainable development to promote social development.

Zeng made the remarks in a meeting with Iranian Vice President Masoumeh Ebtekar, who is also in charge of the environmental protection sector.

Zeng said China and Iran have signed a memorandum of understanding on environmental protection during Ebtekar's visit, marking a new step forward between the two countries on cooperation for environmental protection.

He said China and Iran have made progress in cooperation in all fields since the two countries forged diplomatic ties.

Ebtekar spoke highly of the achievements China has made in the reform and opening-up drive, noting that Iran will work with China on environmental protection and clean resources.

(Xinhua News Agency July 2, 2004)