The world’s geopolitical tectonic plates are shifting, and Iran is seeking to capitalize on the changing order to bring much-needed economic relief. With the prospect of international sanctions being lifted dropping away, Tehran is looking to Russia and China as a source of political and economic support. This week’s summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) offered an invaluable PR opportunity for Iran’s leadership.
The government is celebrating a Memorandum of Obligations that was signed with the SCO on 14 September which should pave the way for Iran by mid-2023 to join the multilateral organization which is dominated by Russia and China. The agreement, and the summit in general, is a golden opportunity for Iran to flaunt its challenge to US hegemony on the global stage. For Russia too the summit is a useful exercise in showcasing its continued international relevance. (CONTINUED - 1064 WORDS)
