Iran-Russia Cooperation and Rivalry Grounds in Central Asia in a Geopolitical Framework

Even though subsequent to the Cold War, Washington and Moscow geostrategic competition came to an end in many parts of the world, a fresh rivalry has been sparked between them in Central Asia and the Caucasus. This rivalry has been developed between regional and transregional powers with the aim of gaining geopolitical advantages, enhancement of security structures, dominance over energy resources and extension of their sphere of influence. article adopts descriptive-analytical approach and analyzes benefits and behavioral patterns of regional and trans regional powers in Central Asia geopolitical environment after the Cold War. In addition, it studies objectives and interests of Iran-Russia as two main actors in Central Asia and specifies their interaction at opposite ends of rivalry and cooperation. The paper claims that Iran-Russia conflict is not in line with their interests and the approach of rivalry in a cooperation platform would best serve Iran’s interests in Central Asia.