From Symbolism to Networkism in Urban Diplomacy: Reimagining Knowledge Transformation and Learning Structures in Sister City Relations

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 professor of urban and regional planning, Faculty of Art and Architecture, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran 2 MA in regional planning, Faculty of Art and Architecture, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran 10.22059/jurbangeo.2017.216558

2 PhD Candidate in Urban Planning, Urban Planning Department, Faculty of Urban Planning, Faculty of Fine Arts, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.

3 PhD Candidate in Urban Planning, Faculty of Art and Architecture, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran

4 Master's student in Architecture, Faculty of Urban Planning, Faculty of Fine Arts, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.

10.22111/gaij.2025.53820.3312

Abstract

In today’s interconnected world, cities have become key players in shaping the architecture of the global order, and urban diplomacy, as a new language of global interaction, has transcended the boundaries between politics, knowledge, and culture. In this context, sister city relations are no longer merely symbolic mechanisms for cultural exchange; they have evolved into functional platforms for the reproduction of intellectual capital, the transfer of innovation, and the enhancement of urban governance capacities on a global scale. This research, using the analytical approach of knowledge network theory and bibliometric analysis, reconstructs the conceptual map of urban diplomacy and provides a strategic framework for understanding the transformation of sister city relations in the context of network governance. The findings indicate that the conceptual structure of intercity relations has moved beyond the linear and symbolic model of the past, evolving into a complex, multi-centric, and learning-based system. In this new framework, concepts such as sustainability, social innovation, smart cities, and resilience have become key components of synergistic governance. In this context, sister city relations function as “nodes of knowledge,” enhancing global problem-solving capacity through the exchange of information, technology, and experience. The knowledge network analysis reveals that the main research clusters in this field have emerged along two primary pathways: first, the “knowledge and technological diplomacy” cluster, which focuses on the transfer of urban innovations and scientific cooperation; and second, the “cultural and social diplomacy” cluster, which emphasizes the reproduction of social capital and the international image of cities. Finally, this study, by integrating network data and multi-level governance concepts, presents a conceptual model for redefining the role of sister city relations in achieving sustainable urban development goals. This model recognizes cities not only as geographical entities but also as living systems of knowledge production, political agency, and collective learning—systems from which the future of global cooperation will emerge.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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Geography and Territorial Spatial Arrangement
Volume 16, Issue 58
March 2026
Pages 179-216

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  • Receive Date: 12 November 2025
  • Revise Date: 15 December 2025
  • Accept Date: 23 December 2025

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