Geographical Research

One of the new areas in the field of studying the country''s development planning is border regions. Although from past to present different aspects of the problems related to these regions have been studied، but spatial planning of border regions not only its position has not been clarified in the planning system of the country''s development but also its dimensions and characteristics have received little attention. Border areas are facing many problems such as: migration of residents to large cities because of lack of economic incentives and insecurity along the border region etc…، these problems specifies the need to scientific studies and efficient development plans. The present study using a descriptive - analytical and empirical method to provide strategic planning strategies for the spatial planning in East borders of Iran. For this purpose، the analytical model (SWOT) and Quantitative Strategic Planning Matrix (QSPM) is used for prioritizing the strategies. The results show that given the current situation، appropriate strategies for spatial planning in Eastern border areas of Iran is defensive type (WT) and currently، based on prioritization is done، the two below strategies: “Preparation of comprehensive development plan for the eastern provinces (especially in border areas)”، “Development of physical infrastructure and the necessary actions to reduce the performance gap between marginal and central areas” have higher priority.