Tehran – In a speech showing the conclusions of the 3rd Iran-Africa Economic Cooperation Council held in Isfahan, Minister of Iran’s cultural heritage, tourism and handicrafts, the city described it as “a symbol of Iranian civilization.”
On behalf of President Masoud Pezeshkian, Salehi-Amiri welcomed representatives from 38 African countries and expressed his gratitude for his visit to the “lands of history, civilization and culture.”
On Thursday, May 1, the minister said Isfahan’s choice as a venue was intentional and highlighted a pivotal role in Iran’s history, culture and development.
“Isfahan is not only a cultural and civilized hub in Iran, but also a magnetic destination that embodies both material and spiritual beauty,” he said. “Its artistic heritage, economic potential and academic excellence make it a central focus of its powerful influence.”
Salehi-Amiri further highlighted the multifaceted identity of the city, from the core of art and music, citing world-renowned painter Mahmoud Farshchian to major centres of industry, medicine, science and artificial intelligence. “A considerable number of Iran’s most influential scholars have roots in the region,” he pointed out.
Looking at Iran-Africa relations, Salehi-Amiri stressed the importance of strengthening cooperation. “Africa is a continent of deep civilization, a rich culture and immeasurable possibilities,” he said.
The minister criticized him for describing him as “Iranhophia,” perpetuated by global forces, claiming that it distorted the true image of Iran. “Despite these efforts, over 7.3 million foreign tourists visited Iran in 2024,” he said, adding that over 85% of visitors rated Iran’s charm experience as superior in post-visit surveys.
To invite African scientists, entrepreneurs and scholars to visit Iran, Salehi-Amiri highlighted the country’s vast offerings across all 20 globally recognized tourism sectors. “Iran has over a million historic sites. No other parts of the world offer heritage of this scale,” he argued.
The five-day Iran-Africa Economic Cooperation Council, jointly held by Iran’s Ministry of Industry, Mines, Trade and Foreign Affairs, began in Tehran and concluded in Isfahan. This coincided with the Iran Expo 2025, the seventh exhibition of the 7th export capacity of the Islamic Republic of Iran, held in Tehran from April 28th to May 2nd.
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