China’s Peripheral Diplomacy and Locating the Strategic Rapprochement of Iran and Pakistan

In an evolving global order, where the USA remains a dominant power, China is emerging as a key regional and global actor. Since 2012, China has actively pursued a policy of peripheral diplomacy aimed at establishing a Sino-centric regional network. This approach faces significant challenges due to political differences among regional states. China has taken on a mediating role to address these obstacles, as evidenced by its involvement in the recent Saudi-Iran rapprochement. This study employs an inductive inquiry approach grounded in empirical evidence to explore China’s peripheral diplomacy and its capacity to mediate in Iran-Pakistan relations. The analysis aims to evaluate Beijing’s potential role as a third-party facilitator, aligning with its broader strategic objectives of the “Chinese Dream” and the vision of national rejuvenation. The findings reveal that despite historical tensions, both Iran and Pakistan are increasingly aligning with China’s strategic goals, particularly through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), Comprehensive Strategic Partnerships (CSP), and China’s broader vision of a “community of shared destiny.” The study concludes that a regional shift is underway, with power dynamics transitioning from a US-led security architecture to a Beijing-led model, highlighting the Asianization of Asia as a key feature of this emerging order.