Iran’s location at the East-West crossroads was the reason behind the incursions of tribes and attacks on its civilizational and cultural achievements.
Building up walls, diplomacy, swearing allegiance, digging ditches and construction of castles could do little to protect the country, university professor Rouhollah Eslami prefaced his write-up for the Persian economic daily Donya-e-Eqtesad with this note.
A translation of the text follows:
Almost every 300 years, Iran went under the occupation of allied tribes, wherein libraries were destroyed, scientists were killed and even buildings were razed down. In the contemporary era, Iran also got embroiled in the first and second world wars, when it was again occupied. High levels of diplomatic intelligence and experience are needed to protect Iran’s national interests.
As technology, diplomacy and balance of power mechanisms improved, wars became less frequent. At present, Iran’s geopolitical position presents more opportunities. Information technology, globalization and the probability of the formation of a global government in the 21st century offer an exceptional development opportunity to Iran.
In the 21st century, Iran can become an international transportation hub, with its oil, gas, road and air routes, railroads, internet facilities, airports, ports, terminals and stadiums
Oil, gas, mines, educated human resources and Iranian citizens’ enthusiasm for mastering new technologies come to fruition when we pay attention to Iran’s main advantage that is its geopolitical position.
In the 21st century, Iran can become an international transportation hub, with its oil, gas, road and air routes, railroads, internet facilities, airports, ports, terminals and stadiums. The country’s geographical position can compensate for its historical disadvantages.
The elimination of Iran from the international equation would lead to the country’s underdevelopment, prevalence of terrorism in the region and absence of international trade. Iran is at the crossroads that should connect airports, roads, railroads, stadiums, ports and international oil and gas pipelines.
International isolation, sanctions and elimination of Iran will contribute to violence, war, terrorist acts and even World War III. Part of the global capacity that leads to international peace and development of Iran is in the hands of researchers and policymakers. This crossroad of communications requires intelligent diplomacy, the strengthening of military power and forging of relations with other countries.
Iran’s return to the international scene could activate Iran’s transportation capacity. There is a need for a policy that can activate the advantage of Iran’s geopolitical position in the information age. Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Qatar and other neighboring countries do not have Iran’s unique geopolitical position.
In its seventh development plan, this variable can be used to improve the country.
