Soltani-Far, Iranian vice-president, said that his country welcomes more Chinese tourists to help increasing understanding about the Persian Gulf country.

Soltani-Far (left fourth), vice-president of Iran, says that the ancient Silk Road is a history shared by both China and Iran, based on which the two countries can communicate and cooperate more in the new era. [Photo/chinadaily.com.cn]

Iran is making great efforts to develop its tourism, planning to build more than 300 starred hotels, Soltani-Far said in a forum on Wednesday at the Iranian embassy in Beijing.

"Many people have changed their attitude toward Iran after their visits, finding it a friendly, enthusiastic, and peaceful country," said Soltani-Far.

Li Ping, vice-chairman of China Tourism Association, said that he looked forward to further cooperation on tourism with Iran.

After the event, Soltani-Far met separately with Xiong Jiuling, chairperson of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade Beijing sub-council, discussing how to expand cooperation in tourism.

"Iran will work together with China on any 'One Belt, One Road' projects and strategies to boost Iran's economy," said Soltani-Far, adding that his country has been working hard to promote its relationship with China under the "One Belt, One Road" initiative.