The Role of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization in Strengthening Dialogue and Securing the Interests of Iran and Tajikistan

Abstract

The main objective of this article is to examine the impact of communication and dialogue on securing the interests of Iran primarily, and Tajikistan secondarily, while exploring the means of achieving this aim. In the process of analyzing Iran and Tajikistan and conducting related research, it is essential to consider certain caveats due to the perspective shaped by the geopolitical position of these two countries. Within this framework, Tajikistan, considering its type of political development and its existing cultural and historical ties with Iran—as a nation with a deeply rooted and powerful heritage and one of the greatest regional civilizations—holds a significant local and regional identity. Therefore, the focus is not solely on dialogue per se; rather, the issue of connection inherent in dialogue at the regional level is of primary concern. The investigation must address the presence of elements involved in this connection and political dialogue, the goals and instruments of political dialogue, theoretical identification systems, and the methodological framework based on political interaction. The analysis of this political dialogue as a form of cultural discourse and its characteristics within a regional organizational system must be undertaken. This would enable a contextual understanding of the social, political, and regional environments of both Iran and Tajikistan, as well as their respective interests and the extent of their influence. It would also serve to encourage political dialogues through the utilization of regional political instruments, particularly the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), as a means to reinforce such communication. It should also be noted that the presence of Russia and certain other powers plays an influential role in facilitating this process.