Introduction
Unity among Islamic countries refers to the collective effort and the cause of Muslim nations to strengthen solidarity, cooperation, and mutual support in various political, cultural, and economic fields which aims to increase the collective power of the Islamic Ummah. Economic unity, which is clarified in the statements of the supreme leader of the Islamic Republic, refers to the joint efforts of Islamic countries to achieve economic convergence. Also, Economic diplomacy is the common pillar of economic interests and foreign policy of every country, which is considered one of the development strategies of emerging powers nowadays. The current research aims to assess the feasibility of utilizing economic diplomacy in the fulfillment of economic convergence among Islamic countries.
Literature Review
Studies on the opportunities and requirements of economic diplomacy in strengthening the convergence of Islamic countries reveal that this research area has received limited attention from research institutions and policy-making centers within the country. A review of available sources indicates that most published works focus on theoretical discussions and conceptual analyses of economic diplomacy. However, there has been little specialized research examining the relationship between economic diplomacy and convergence among Islamic countries. Consequently, only a few articles on this specific subject have been published:
Veisi (2023) conducted a study titled Foresight of Islamic Countries’ Convergence Using Scenario Planning, employing a foresight framework and scenario planning methodology to present four scenarios for the future of Islamic countries. The first scenario envisions the establishment of a unified government leading to full convergence among Islamic countries. The second scenario suggests convergence in the form of an Islamic confederation as the preferred future. The third and fourth scenarios discuss the formation of an Islamic Union and an Organization of Islamic Cooperation framework, respectively, as pathways toward convergence. However, this research does not address economic unity as a fundamental and necessary element for Islamic countries (Veisi, 2023, p. 123).
Izadi and Mousaei (2022) examined the causes and factors of economic divergence among Islamic countries in their study titled The Impact of Economic Divergence of Islamic Countries on the Convergence of the Islamic World. While the research provides an in-depth analysis of the roots of economic divergence among Islamic countries, it does not address the impact of economic diplomacy models in strengthening convergence among these nations. The study primarily focuses on identifying the causes of economic divergence rather than the potential role of economic diplomacy in fostering unity (Izadi & Mousaei, 2022, p. 35-56).
Ezati, Ejabi, and Mokhtari (2021), in their study titled Geopolitical Analysis of the Convergence and Divergence Components in the Islamic World, with a foresight approach, argue that the realization of convergence among Islamic countries depends on reducing the involvement of extra-regional powers and addressing ethnic and religious challenges within the Islamic world. As a result, this would lead these countries toward development and sustainable security. However, the study overlooks the role of economic factors in creating political and social stability. Economic growth indicators and the improvement and reform of infrastructure play a critical role in strengthening convergence among Islamic countries (Ezati, Ejabi, & Mokhtari, 2021, p. 209-231).
Methodology
The approach of this research is qualitative and exploratory, with data collection primarily conducted through library research. It involves reviewing key terms and concepts by examining sources, particularly from the past decade, to establish a conceptual framework. Ultimately, the study conducts an in-depth analysis of the subject and offers policy recommendations. Data collection focuses on reviewing relevant documents and literature, including scholarly articles, specialized books, statistical resources, and primary internal and external documents.
Results
The findings of the research indicate that economic convergence among Islamic countries can be achieved by designing a conceptual model based on the principles of economic diplomacy. This can be realized through the creation of common markets, a joint export guarantee fund, an Islamic financial messaging system, the signing of trade agreements, bilateral or multilateral monetary agreements, economic diversification, and the establishment of an institutional framework.
 Discussion
 Islamic countries have faced significant challenges on the global stage, including poverty, underdevelopment, and backwardness. Today, the Islamic world is striving to overcome these obstacles by emphasizing its strategic role and position. The path to addressing these problems requires extensive collaboration, solidarity, order, and cohesion within the Islamic world. Given their shared principles, goals, interests, and aspirations, Islamic countries have the potential to establish common economic blocs to achieve sustainable economic stability. One of the most effective ways to strengthen integration among Islamic nations is through economic unity. Economic diplomacy, as a strategic tool for countries seeking to enhance their economic interests through international cooperation and negotiation, presents unique opportunities for collaboration and convergence. This research focuses on the role of economic integration in empowering the Islamic world. Economic convergence among Islamic countries is vital for several reasons. Firstly, given the rich natural and human resources present in these nations, economic cooperation can foster sustainable development and reduce poverty. Secondly, considering the commonalities shared among Islamic nations, integration across various sectors provides a solution to existing challenges. Additionally, the creation of a strong economic bloc can enhance both national and regional security.
Conclusion
Islamic countries, with their rich resources and high economic potential, can play a role as effective actors in the international system. In particular, the existence of vast markets, abundant natural resources, and a common culture among these countries pave the way for creating exceptional opportunities for economic cooperation and synergy. Economic diplomacy plays an important role as a tool for strengthening international cooperation in the fields of trade, investment, and sustainable development. Islamic countries, given their shared historical and cultural experiences, can implement effective strategies to strengthen their economic relations. In addition, economic interactions can help improve security and stability in different regions and improve the general situation of these countries. On the other hand, existing challenges such as political and economic disputes, internal inconsistencies, and external pressures can be serious obstacles to achieving these goals; therefore, the feeling of the need for synergy and coordination in economic policies and programs among Islamic countries is of particular importance. Ultimately, economic diplomacy can play a pivotal role in strengthening the position of Islamic countries in the international system and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, so that these countries can be recognized as strategic partners in the global arena.