Asian Century and the Assessment of China's Position in Iran's Look to the East Approach

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

mehrshad ghafarizade ¹

Omid Asiyaban ²

¹ Researcher in the Foreign Policy Group of the Political-Legal Department at the Research Center of the Islamic Consultative Assembly (Parliament of Iran). Tehran, Iran.

² Ph.D. in International Relations, Department of International Relations, Faculty of Law and Political Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, iran.

10.22067/irlip.2026.90054.1578

Abstract

The concept of the "Asian Century" is significant in international analyses, signifying fundamental transformations in the East across political and economic dimensions. China is recognized as the most prominent emerging power in the region due to its policies and developments on a global scale, which have profound impacts on other Asian countries and global trends. In this context, the "Look to the East" approach in the foreign policy of the Islamic Republic of Iran emphasizes cooperation with major Eastern powers while adhering to the principle of neither East nor West. This study explores how Iran can harness China's capabilities to achieve its national goals. The research hypothesis posits that China's economic, geopolitical, and military strength as a major Asian power can create significant opportunities for non-Western nations and regional actors like Iran. This can be realized through political and diplomatic support and enhanced cooperation in economic and technological spheres. The research employs a descriptive-analytical method, concluding that Iran's "Look to the East" approach seeks to leverage multilateralism and strengthen collaboration with countries like China in response to Western sanctions.

Keywords

Asian Century

China

Look to the East

Islamic Republic of Iran

Asianization

International Order

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