Before the rise of West Europe and then North America, it was the Mediterranean belt which hosted global powers in turns in the best of the sense that was possible back then. Since the latter part of the last century it has been being speculated that the upcoming century could be of Asia. But I personally would like to call it East Asian century as to me West Asia has lost its vitality. South Asia can play Soviet Russia's role in the upcoming Asian power struggle where China will be playing the U.S.A.. Here it is interesting how India and Japan make couple to contain Chinese influence.
https://qutnyti.wordpress.com/2018/02/19/aagc-cannot-counter-bri-but-can-act-as-complementary/