TEHRAN – Iran’s Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts Reza Salehi Amiri said on Monday that tourism could strengthen ties between Iran and Saudi Arabia while inviting the Saudi side to the upcoming Tehran International Tourism Exhibition.
Prime Minister Salehi Amiri told Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Minister Ahmed Al-Khatib on the sidelines of the 26th United Nations Tourism Assembly in Riyadh that the Islamic Republic is ready to actively participate in joint cultural and tourism initiatives, especially in the areas of heritage, handicrafts and religious tourism, IRNA reported.
“We believe that tourism can deepen ties between the peoples of Iran and Saudi Arabia,” Salehi Amiri said. “While our citizens are keen to visit Mecca and Medina, Saudis are interested in discovering Iran’s natural and pilgrimage attractions.”
He invited Mr. Al-Khateeb to participate in the Tehran International Tourism Exhibition, stating that it is the largest tourism event in the region and an opportunity to showcase the cultural and economic capabilities of Iran and Saudi Arabia and promote cooperation between the tourism industries of the two countries.
Salehi Amiri said West Asia has the world’s richest cultural and historical heritage, but its share of global tourism receipts remains limited. “Iranian-Saudi cooperation could become a driving force in attracting international tourists and promoting Islamic culture globally,” he added.
Foreign Minister Salehi Amiri highlighted positive trends in bilateral relations and said Iran’s commitment to expanding ties with Saudi Arabia is “firm and clear.” He also cited two recent milestones: the meeting between Iranian President Massoud Pezeshkian and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Doha, and the visit of the Saudi Defense Minister to Tehran.
Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Minister Ahmed Al-Khatib thanked Iran for its “active participation and support” in the General Assembly’s agenda, and said he conveyed greetings to the Iranian government and people from the Custodian of the Holy Mosque and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
He said Riyadh welcomed the continuation of bilateral dialogue, noting that bilateral relations have recently followed a positive trajectory and contributed to regional stability and cooperation.
Foreign Minister Al-Khatib also expressed gratitude for Iran’s invitation to the Tehran tourism exhibition, saying that Saudi Arabia values Iranian handicrafts such as carpets, saffron, and traditional art, and looks forward to expanding cooperation in these fields.
“The Saudi people are familiar with Iran’s culture and history, and strengthening tourism exchanges can enhance mutual understanding and friendship,” he said.
At the end of the meeting, the two ministers agreed to continue dialogue, establish a joint tourism working group, and plan cultural events and specialized exhibitions in Tehran and Riyadh.
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