The conference critically examined Iran’s long-standing Western-oriented foreign policy, arguing that it has marginalized alternative partnerships, particularly with China and East Asia. Speakers stressed that without investing in public diplomacy, tourism, academic cooperation, and a shared civilizational narrative, Iran–China relations will remain transactional rather than strategic.
The Silk Road as a Civilizational Corridor, Not Just a Trade Route
Dr. Ruhollah Ahmadzadeh Kermani:
The Silk Road historically functioned as a conduit for ideas, culture, technology, and civilization, not merely commerce. Colonial powers—especially Britain—have long sought to disrupt this route. Today, U.S. maritime containment of China follows the same logic of weakening land-based powers and continental connectivity.
Civilizational Self Awareness as the Foundation of Sustainable Foreign Policy
Dr. Mohammad Hadi Homayoun:
Iran suffers from a loss of civilizational self-awareness and has forgotten its historical role in global affairs. Shared civilizational values between Iran and China—such as wisdom, spirituality, and social order—create deep potential for dialogue that transcends short-term political interests. Without reclaiming this identity, long-term foreign policy strategy remains impossible.
Beyond East vs. West: Iran as an Active Civilizational Actor
Dr. Mohammad Hadi Homayoun:
The core challenge for Iran is not choosing between Eastern or Western blocs, but abandoning a passive, consumer-oriented approach to global engagement. Iran must redefine itself as a civilizational actor with intellectual, cultural, and ethical contributions—rather than merely a buyer of technology or exporter of raw materials.
Iran’s Image in Chinese Historical Memory and Cultural Diplomacy
Dr. Hamed Vafaei:
In Chinese historical consciousness, Iran is known as “Pars,” a name associated with high culture and civilization. Persian-influenced Qur’anic manuscripts, historic mosques, and Persian literary works such as Saadi’s Golestan demonstrate Iran’s deep role in shaping Chinese Islamic civilization—an asset largely neglected in modern diplomacy.
