TEHRAN – The Iranology Foundation held an official ceremony on Tuesday to celebrate the transition of leadership, celebrating resignation President Mohammad Hossein Rajabi Dabani and presenting Ali Akbar Salehi as the newly appointed chief.
The event, held at the foundation’s Motasham Kashani Hall, was attended by academics, cultural figures and researchers, as well as senior officials, including First Vice President Mohammad Reza and Foreign Minister Abbas Aragut.
At the ceremony, the speakers highlighted the important role of the Iranology Foundation in the preservation and promotion of Iran’s rich cultural and historical heritage, while also addressing the contemporary challenges facing the national identity on the world stage.
Iranian nation, collective mission for cultural strength: Salech
In his inaugural address, Ali Akbar Salehi expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead the foundation, highlighting his long-standing involvement with Iranology and cultural studies.
Salehi describes Iran as a source of wisdom, art and knowledge, saying that studying and promoting Iran’s heritage is not merely an academic or historical obligation, but a fundamental necessity for both present and future.
“In an age where distorted narratives and manipulated representations challenge our national identity, it is our collective responsibility to accurately present the world with a true image of Iran,” he said. “Iranology is not a personal pursuit, but a collaborative effort that requires unity, research and a shared vision.”
Salehi emphasized that thousands of years of Iran’s survival and resilience are built on fundamental values such as perseverance, wisdom, creativity, tolerance and innovation. However, he warned of the growing influence of modern propaganda and media manipulation. He said the aim is to undermine the cultural ties to the national identity of young Iranians.
“This is why iranologists must play an active role in countering these influences and ensuring that young people are not alienated from their roots,” he argued.
Salehi emphasized that Iranian research is not just about history, but about the future, urging scholars to develop a deep analytical understanding of social and cultural transformation, effectively placing Iran in an evolving global landscape.
“The world is experiencing rapid change and it is important to redefine Iran’s role in this change. Establishing think tanks, strategic research initiatives, and cultural diplomacy programs can create a roadmap for iranology research that is consistent with modern reality,” he explained.
Salehi also emphasized Persian as a united force within Iran’s diverse cultural and linguistic landscapes.
“It is a general thread that brings together our diverse communities and ensures national unity and unity.”
Iranian Studies Strategic Factors of Iran’s Foreign Policy: VP
Speaking at the ceremony, Vice President Mohammad Reza praised Salehi as an academic and ethical leader with over 40 years of experience in higher education. He believed he played a key role in reopening the university and administering some of the most prestigious academic institutions in Iran and the region.
The AREF highlighted Iran’s potential in scientific and cultural diplomacy, saying that Salehi’s leadership at the Iranology Foundation would further strengthen Iran’s position in global cultural discourse.
“The government will fully support the Foundation in its mission to promote iranology,” he asserted.
Aleph also calls Persian revival a linguistic and cultural power, highlighting its historical significance across the region.
“Persia and Iran are inseparable,” he said. “For centuries, Persia has been a language of scholarship, literature and governance across most of the region. Many neighboring countries take great pride in Persian culture. The image of Iranian scholars is on display at universities and cultural institutions.”
He accused Iranian phobia of serious injustice towards human civilization, claiming Iranian culture is a beacon of wisdom and enlightenment throughout history.
“While Western civilization has been responsible for countless wars and atrocities, including the tragic massacres of Gaza, Iranian civilization has always promoted dignity, knowledge and cultural excellence,” AREF said.
The AREF emphasized that the 14th government, along with traditional diplomatic efforts, is committed to expanding its iranology as an important pillar of foreign policy.
He confirmed that Iranology is a current national priority and that all government agencies will support the Iranology Foundation under Salehi’s leadership.