Abstract

Objective: The present study examines the necessity of changing Iran's foreign policy approach towards Afghanistan from an economic perspective in the new era of Taliban rule. The process of developments at the regional and international levels, Afghanistan's strategic position and the existence of shared borders, strengthening economic approaches in Iran within the framework of economic and security requirements have all caused Iran's approach to shift from focusing solely on border security and security controls to developing economic and trade relations, especially with Afghanistan, to gain special importance. Main question: "What are the economic and political advantages for Iran to change its approach and become actively present in Afghanistan in the new Taliban era?"

Main hypothesis: The expansion of economic-based interactions can be key variables that lead to Iran's strategy changing from security to economic.

Methodology: The study examines the requirements and requirements for the formation of Iran's new political economy in Afghanistan using qualitative analytical methods and a review of existing documents and data.

Findings: By deepening economic interactions, Iran can reduce its security costs at the borders and inside the country. Also, according to the theory of neo-functionalism, advantages such as respecting the rights of minorities and resolving water and land issues are also achieved.

Innovation: This research presents a new analysis of the change in Iran's foreign policy approach, emphasizing the importance of political economy, which can serve as a model for Iran's regional policymaking.

Conclusion: Changing the approach from security to a political economy-based approach can create new opportunities. Actively adopting political economy will activate economic drivers and strengthen the comparative advantages of joint cooperation. While stabilizing the national economy against the complications and shocks caused by an oil-dependent economy, it will also bring various political, security, and socio-cultural results and achievements