The Role of Urban Diplomacy in the Islamic Republic of Iran's Foreign Policy: A Case Study of Iran–Kyrgyzstan

Document Type : Original Article

Author

Assistant professor Political science.faculty law and political science.university of mazandaran.babolsar.iran

10.22080/jpir.2026.30080.1459

Abstract

Cities, along with emerging global transformations, have appeared as one of the most important actors in the governance of public affairs at both international and intra-governmental levels. They can play an active role and safeguard their national and urban interests, as globalization has expanded the presence and influence of new actors. Urban diplomacy, with an emphasis on intercity interaction and relying on nations rather than states, can complement official diplomacy and contribute to improving relations with other countries. Iran and Kyrgyzstan signed a sister-city agreement in 1993, which represents a step toward realizing urban diplomacy between Tehran and Bishkek.The main question of this research is: What is the position of urban diplomacy in the foreign policy of Iran and Kyrgyzstan? Applying the conceptual framework of sister-city relations and urban diplomacy, and using a descriptive–explanatory method based on library research, the article formulates the hypothesis that the cities of the two countries can, by employing elements of civilization and culture, religious values, geopolitical position, scientific advancements, Persian-language education, tourism, and economic capacities, take steps to enhance interactions and national interests for both sides. Through Kyrgyzstan, Iran can gain access to Central Asian countries, China, and European markets via a railway corridor. Due to Kyrgyzstan’s rich water resources, Iran given its expertise in dam engineering can contribute to dam construction and electricity generation in the country, which would primarily yield economic benefits for Iran. .

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