TEHRAN – Russian Culture Week in Iran is scheduled to launch in Tehran and Isfahan on Monday evening, organizers said.
The purpose of this event is to emphasize the deepening of cultural ties and strategic cooperation between the two countries. Hossain, Deputy Director of Scientific and Cultural Co-operation and Development in Iranian Culture and Islamic Relations Organization (ICRO), announced this at a joint press conference with Alexis Yurievich Dedov’s Russian Ambassador in Tehran on Sunday.
The week’s celebration coincides with a well-known visit by Russian Minister of Culture, Olga Livimova, and highlights the importance of cultural diplomacy to promote mutual understanding and cooperation, Divsalar added.
He noted that the event was organized under the auspices of the Iranian Ministry of Culture and the Islamic Ministry of Leadership, with the dedicated support of the ICRO and various government agencies.
He also expressed his special thanks for the efforts of the Russian Embassy in Iran in promoting this important cultural exchange and the Iranian embassy and cultural attachment office in Russia.
Divsalar emphasized the importance of cultural diplomacy as an important tool for long-term international relations. “Cultural events like Russia’s Cultural Week are not merely symbolic or ritual. They are positive cultural efforts that serve as bridges between nations, promoting dialogue, mutual respect and lasting partnerships,” he said.
He emphasized that the week offers a valuable opportunity to deepen familiarity between Iran and Russia. This is two ancient civilizations that share historical, cultural and artistic bonds. The event features a wide range of activities across Tehran and Isfahan, including art exhibitions, film screenings, concerts and academic forums, marking one of the most extensive and diverse cultural exchanges held in Iran.
The presence of more than 110 prominent Russian artists and cultural figures brings together additional officials and delegates across a variety of fields, including music, visual arts and film, to more than 130 members, highlighting the importance of both countries placing them in this initiative.
In particular, Russian Culture Week will include the opening of an exhibition at the Niabaran Cultural Centre, performances of the Tchaikovsky Symphony Orchestra in Tehran and Isfahan, and special film screening events.
On his part, Ambassador Dedov expressed his gratitude for his warm acceptance and emphasized the importance of this cultural event in response to Iran’s cultural initiatives in Russia, particularly Iran’s cultural week held in 2023.
He noted that this week also held strategic meetings, including visits to major cultural and education centres, including the Iran-Russian Joint Cooperation Committee’s Cultural Committee at ICRO, to promote further cooperation in translation projects, co-film production and creative industries.
In addition to Tehran, the festival extends to Isfahan. In Isfahan, traditional art exhibitions, calligraphy displays and performances by Russian art groups enrich the cultural landscape. “The event also includes the third meeting of the Iran-Russia Cultural Cooperation Committee, which aims to establish long-term cultural and artistic partnerships.”
Russi’s Cultural Week aligns with a broader framework of strengthening Iran-Reusia’s relationship rooted in shared history and mutual respect, he said.
He argued that it reflects the strategic importance imposed on cultural diplomacy by both countries, as clarified by Iranian officials and Russian representatives.
The collaboration aims to promote not only artistic exchanges but also important initiatives such as the proposed Russian home in Tehran, a dedicated cultural and educational hub that serves as a focus to promote Russian, artistic and scientific cooperation.
Conclusion of the event, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to promoting cultural understanding and cooperation, and viewed this week as a stepping stone to a richer and more resilient bilateral relationship.
sab/