Iran Boosts Cultural Diplomacy at UAE Investment Forum: A New Era of Collaboration
Iran’s participation in the Annual Investment Meeting (AIM) Congress 2025 is of utmost importance, as emphasized by Seyyed Reza Salehi-Amiri, the country’s Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts. This significant event, which took place last week in the United Arab Emirates, serves as a crucial platform for promoting Iran’s rich cultural heritage and civilizational identity on a global scale.
During his recent statement, Salehi-Amiri highlighted the AIM Congress as a valuable opportunity for discussing Iran’s vast capacities in cultural heritage, tourism, and handicrafts. He noted that Iran’s proactive engagement at the congress was pivotal in reshaping international perceptions of the nation, presenting “a new and realistic image of cultural and civilizational Iran” to a diverse audience.
The minister also stressed the increasing relevance of cultural diplomacy in today’s rapidly evolving global environment. He articulated Iran’s strategy as one grounded in deep civilizational roots, aimed at fostering sustainable peace, promoting cultural convergence, and encouraging multi-layered international cooperation.
Throughout the congress, Salehi-Amiri engaged in both bilateral and multilateral discussions with ministers from various countries, focusing on culture, economy, and tourism. These meetings played a crucial role in establishing a foundation for expanding collaborations in scientific, cultural, and economic sectors, particularly in:
- Heritage Preservation
- Handicrafts
- Sustainable Tourism
Salehi-Amiri identified key themes of the 2025 AIM Congress, such as:
- Digital Transformation
- Tourism Infrastructure Investment
- Emerging Technologies
- Sustainable Development
These themes are essential for defining future-oriented strategies. According to the minister, Iran’s unique geopolitical position, rich cultural diversity, and abundant natural resources make it an attractive destination for forward-thinking investments in technology-driven and sustainable tourism projects.
Moreover, Salehi-Amiri underscored the need for developing high-level academic and cultural partnerships with other nations. He argued that such initiatives would not only advance national economic objectives but also bolster Iran’s role as a soft power and a significant cultural and civilizational reference point in global dynamics.
In conclusion, the minister reiterated that Iran’s active participation in the AIM 2025 Congress plays a vital role in fostering a more accurate and constructive international understanding of the country. He stated, “With its rich heritage, strategic advantages, and vision for sustainable development, Iran can offer a model of balanced and future-oriented diplomacy.”
Salehi-Amiri further added, “This path will not only serve Iran’s national interests but also elevate its status as an active and influential player on the global stage.” His visit to Abu Dhabi was made at the official invitation of the UAE’s chairman of the tourism council and Zurab Pololikashvili, the Secretary-General of the UN Tourism (formerly known as the United Nations World Tourism Organization, UNWTO). He was cordially welcomed by Iran’s ambassador to the UAE upon arrival.
The Islamic Republic anticipates significant benefits from its abundant tourist attractions, which include:
- Bazaars
- Museums
- Mosques
- Bridges
- Bathhouses
- Madrasas
- Mausoleums
- Churches
- Towers
- Mansions
Notably, 28 of these attractions are inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list, showcasing the cultural wealth and historical significance that Iran possesses.
