Tehran – Seyedreza Salehi Amiri, Minister of Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts and Tourism, describes cultural diplomacy as the cornerstone of strengthening Iran-Egypt relations.
He was welcomed by Nasleen Osmanli, an advisor to the Egyptian Tourism Authority, and Mohammad Hossein Soltanifad, head of the interests division of Iran’s Islamic Republic in Cairo, who has arrived in Cairo, the IRNA reported.
On the eve of the fourth meeting of the Minister of Tourism, the Economic Cooperation Agency, he said that Iran and Egypt’s tourism relations have entered a new and powerful phase and opened new perspectives for strategic cooperation.
Salehi-Amiri emphasized the importance of developing tourism relations between Iran and Egypt.
Regarding Iran’s official participation in the D-8 Cairo Summit, he said that strengthening cultural and tourism ties between Iran and Egypt will allow for new chapters to be opened in strategic relationships.
At the summit, Iran aims to stimulate the possibilities of multilateral cooperation and strengthen its cultural diplomacy with member states, including Turkey, Pakistan, and in particular Egypt.
The December meeting between Iran and Egyptian presidents, along with current efforts focused on prioritizing partnerships in the tourism sector, paved the foundations for updating bilateral engagement, he added.
He said the trip is primarily intended to promote joint initiatives between Iran and Egyptian tourism institutions.
Establishing such connections will not only serve the interests of both countries, but will also promote unity within the Islamic Umma, Salehi Amiri said.
By introducing a new framework for technological collaboration in tourism, Iran aims to enhance its position in emerging regions and global trends, he reiterated.
He continued that Egypt boasts his fascinating historical and cultural potential for Iranians as one of the pioneering countries in Islamic civilization and history of the Arab world.
He said Iranians are eager to become close familiar with Egyptian civilization and religious heritage.
Referring to the richness of Iranian cultural heritage and its unique monuments, the minister said Iran has a great capacity that is attractive to Egyptians.
“We have many historic monuments that are listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. It shows the cultural and historical wealth of Iran and is effective in promoting tourism exchange and interaction.”
It emphasizes the importance of using Medica’s capabilities to introduce and promote tourism and cultural attractions in both countries, saying, “National media and social networks need to be used effectively. It is possible to introduce scientific and cultural media and elites to the tourism capabilities of Iran and Egypt.
KD