TEHRAN – Minister of Iran’s cultural heritage, tourism and crafts, Leza Salehi Amiri met with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican on Sunday to reaffirm Iran’s commitment to cultural diplomacy and interfaith dialogue.
During the meeting, Salehi Amiri conveyed a message from the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, highlighting Iran’s longstanding belief in the unifying principles of the world’s great faith.
“We believe that all God’s religion is rooted in a single truth. It calls humanity dignity, compassion and peace,” Salehi Amiri said. He emphasized that Iran’s approach to global involvement is beyond politics and instead rooted in the country’s rich civilisation heritage.
“Our cultural heritage serves as a universal language of connection,” he added. “In today’s world, such languages are essential to building a more humane and collaborative future.”
Pope Leo XIV praised the historical and cultural depths of the Iranian people, noting that when faith was expressed through respect and dialogue, it “has the power to change the world.” He welcomed all efforts aimed at making the nation and people closer together.
Pope Leo XIV, elected on May 8th, was the first American in the history of the two Millenians to lead the Catholic Church. Originally from Chicago, the 69-year-old spent much of his administrative career in Peru before heading to the Vatican influential Dicaster for Bishop.