Tehran – Hohatra Ayubi, Senior Advisor to Iran’s Minister of Cultural Heritage and Head of International Affairs at the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts, joined Bali’s “Chandi 2025” to call for culture and artistic strategic assets for peace and dialogue.
Ayubi arrived in Bali on September 1st and was welcomed by Indonesian officials before attending the summit, which will be held from September 3rd to 5th. Organized by Indonesia’s Ministry of Culture, the event brings together pastors, policymakers, artists and creative industry leaders to lay the foundation for peace, resilience and sustainable development under cultural themes.
The Chandi event is an acronym for culture, heritage, art, story, diplomacy and innovation, and has won cultural showcases such as Wayang Puppetry, Keris Exhibitions and local performances. Organizers say the event is trying to create a new platform for international cooperation, highlighting Indonesia’s cultural “megadiversity.” The Cultural Tourism Agreement was signed with the UK and Jordan and focused on the preservation of shared heritage, cinema collaboration and tourism exchange.
During the bilateral meeting, Ayubi met with Venezuela’s vice minister of culture. Ayubi said Tehran is determined to expand its cultural and artistic cooperation with Venezuela to present the heritage of both countries worldwide.
In a meeting with Indonesia’s Minister of Culture, Fadri Dzong, Ayubi congratulated Indonesia on its 80th anniversary, saying that the uniqueness of the Eastern civilization lies in their culture and art. The Dzong highlighted the historical links between Iran and Southeast Asia, focusing on the influence of Persian literature and proposed joint projects such as literary translation, cultural festivals, and UNESCO nominations for traditions such as Knowles and Ramadan Iftar.
Working on ministerial sessions, Ayubi said that UNESCO’s decades of work have not hampered war or violence. “Science and education are not enough. Culture and art must be brought to the forefront as a remedy for the wounds of humanity,” he said. He cited Iranian cinema and calligraphy as examples of cultural tools for enhancing dialogue and proposing joint film productions and festivals.
Ayubi also urged the government to ease visa barriers, promote cultural tourism, and allow for direct exchanges among intellectuals and cultural leaders. “People who know each other are unlikely to wage war,” he said.
Participation in the Iranian summit reflects a commitment to cultural diplomacy, along with senior cultural staff and international partners, and efforts to showcase the country’s historical, artistic and tourism capabilities.
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