BEIJING, Jan. 8 -- China's energy trade and cooperation with Iran is open and transparent, a Foreign Ministry spokeswoman said on Wednesday.

Hua Chunying told a daily press briefing on Wednesday, "China's energy trade and cooperation with Iran and other Middle East countries are very open, transparent and legitimate."

Hua's comments came in response to a question regarding China's stance on oil trade with Iran as the United States and the European Union have relaxed restrictions on oil imports from Iran since June.

Hua stressed China's stance on this issue is clear and consistent.

"The cooperation is mutually-beneficial. It doesn't undermine any other party's interests or violate China's international obligations," Hua said.