Minister Showcases Isfahan’s Rich Cultural Heritage at Iran-Africa Conference
In a recent address at the Third Iran-Africa Economic Cooperation Conference, held in the historic city of Isfahan, Iranian officials emphasized the importance of cultural and economic ties between Iran and Africa. This conference showcased Isfahan as a pivotal symbol of Iranian civilization, drawing attention to its rich heritage and potential for future collaboration.
During the event, Iran’s Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts, Seyyed Reza Salehi-Amiri, represented President Masoud Pezeshkian in welcoming delegates from 38 African nations. He expressed gratitude for their presence in “the land of history, civilization, and culture.”
Salehi-Amiri highlighted the significance of choosing Isfahan as the conference venue, stating:
“Isfahan is not only the cultural and civilizational hub of Iran but also a magnetic destination that embodies both material and spiritual beauty.”
He elaborated on the city’s extensive contributions to Iranian history, culture, and development. According to him, Isfahan stands out for its:
- Artistic heritage
- Economic potential
- Academic excellence
“Its artistic heritage, economic potential, and academic excellence make it a powerful center of influence,” he added. Salehi-Amiri emphasized Isfahan’s multifaceted identity, noting its role as a nucleus of art and music. He specifically mentioned the globally renowned painter Mahmoud Farshchian, highlighting the city’s artistic legacy.
In discussing Iran-Africa relations, Salehi-Amiri stressed the necessity of fostering greater cooperation between the two regions. He remarked:
“Africa is a continent of deep-rooted civilization, rich culture, and immense potential.”
He also addressed the issue of “Iranophobia,” which he claimed is fueled by global powers, distorting the true perception of Iran. Despite such challenges, he noted that over 7.3 million foreign tourists visited Iran in 2024, with more than 85% of them rating their experiences as excellent according to post-visit surveys.
Salehi-Amiri extended an invitation to African scientists, entrepreneurs, and academics to explore the vast opportunities in Iran’s tourism sector. He highlighted the country’s offerings across all 20 globally recognized branches of tourism, stating:
“Iran is home to more than one million historical sites—no other place in the world offers this scale of heritage.”
The five-day Iran-Africa Economic Cooperation Conference was a collaborative effort between Iran’s Ministry of Industry, Mines, and Trade and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The event began in Tehran and concluded in Isfahan, coinciding with the Iran Expo 2025, which showcased the export capabilities of the Islamic Republic of Iran from April 28 to May 2 in Tehran.
In conclusion, the Third Iran-Africa Economic Cooperation Conference served as a platform to strengthen ties between Iran and African nations, highlighting Isfahan’s role as a cultural and economic beacon. The discussions and collaborations initiated during this conference are expected to pave the way for enhanced partnerships that leverage both regions’ unique strengths and potentials.
As Iran continues to welcome tourists and engage with global partners, the focus on cultural heritage and economic development remains a cornerstone of its international strategy.
