Theoretical Foundations and Requirements for Implementing the Look to the East Strategy in the Foreign Policy of the Islamic Republic of Iran

Abstract

The present study examines the theoretical foundations and requirements for implementing the Look to the East strategy in the foreign policy of the Islamic Republic of Iran. On the threshold of the twenty-first century, with the shift in the global balance of power toward the East and, in particular, the rise of China as an economic power, Iran has adopted the Look to the East strategy as a central policy for countering international sanctions and reducing their effects on the national economy. Using a mixed and multidimensional research method, this study shows that although the Look to the East policy has provided advantages such as economic breathing space, access to global markets, attraction of investment, and reduced dependence on the West, it also faces challenges such as the continuation of a single-product economy, asymmetry in bargaining power, and the risk of dependence on China. The findings indicate that this strategy has taken shape more as a reaction to sanctions than as a long-term and strategic policy. By analyzing the evolution of Iran–China trade relations and examining the structure and nature of these relations, this study outlines possible future scenarios and offers practical solutions for optimizing the Look to the East policy. The results show that the success of this policy requires diversification of partners, reduction of dependence on oil, conclusion of transparent and monitorable contracts, establishment of effective supervisory institutions, strengthening of domestic industries, and adoption of multilayered diplomacy.