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Iran sticks to 'Look to the East' doctrine amid frustration with Europe

As Europeans continue to let it down, Iran is increasingly focused on its "Look to the East" doctrine, grabbing every chance to boost trade with China, India and Japan.
Iranian President Hassan Rouhani waves as India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi (R) gestures during a photo opportunity ahead of their meeting at Hyderabad House in New Delhi, India, February 17, 2018. REUTERS/Adnan Abidi - RC12E8F257F0

Britain, France, Germany and the European Union — the European signatories to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) — have offered little beyond frustration to Iran, which had been expecting them to provide the promised economic dividends of the accord in the face of US pressure that has been mounting since President Donald Trump's withdrawal from the deal in May 2018.

Increasingly disappointed, Iran has sought alternatives by trying to materialize its "Look to the East" doctrine, which seeks deeper ties with Asia's three leading powers, namely China, India and Japan.

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