Nowruz: A Celebration of Cultural Unity and Global Connections, Says Foreign Minister

Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi recently highlighted the profound significance of Nowruz, the Persian New Year, as a remarkable symbol of cultural connections and unity among nations that honor this ancient celebration. This statement was made during the opening ceremony of the International Nowruz Festival, held at the iconic Azadi Square in Tehran, Iran’s vibrant capital.

The festival attracted numerous dignitaries, including ministers of culture, representatives from cultural heritage sectors, and foreign ambassadors, all coming together to celebrate this time-honored tradition.

“In the present challenging world, the need for dialogue, understanding, and cooperation is sensed more than before. The Nowruz ritual per se carries the message of friendship and interaction,” Araqchi stated, emphasizing the importance of the festival just a week before the arrival of the Persian New Year.

The following is a detailed account of the key points from Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi’s speech, which was shared on the official Telegram page of the Foreign Ministry’s spokesperson:

In the name of God, the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful

“Honorable Ambassadors, Distinguished Heads of Offices of International Organizations, Ladies, and Gentlemen,

It is a great honor for me today to be with you—the representatives of the nations who celebrate Nowruz as their shared cultural heritage. Nowruz transcends a mere national celebration; it embodies cultural bonds, fraternity among nations, and respect for nature and time. This ancient ritual has been celebrated for centuries across a vast geographic area stretching from South Asia to the Balkans and from Central Asia to the Caucasus, symbolizing hope, renewal, and unity.

This celebration serves as a reminder of age-old wisdom that has emerged throughout history, heralding tranquility, transformation, and peaceful coexistence.

In Iran, Nowruz is not just a calendar event. It represents an opportunity to reflect on our past, assess our present, and aspire for a better future. This celebration unites people, revitalizes cherished traditions, and fortifies values such as compassion, empathy, and generosity at the core of our society.

Key Messages from the Speech:

• The importance of dialogue, understanding, and cooperation in today’s challenging world.
• Nowruz embodies a message of friendship and interaction among nations.
• This celebration demonstrates that nations can come together despite geographical borders and political differences.
• The rich heritage of Nowruz can serve as a foundation for enhancing regional and international cooperation in various spheres, including cultural, economic, and social.

Distinguished colleagues, in our current global landscape, the need for dialogue, understanding, and cooperation is more pronounced than ever. The essence of the Nowruz celebration carries a powerful message: that nations, regardless of their geographical locations or political views, can unite around shared human values to promote a world of sustainable peace and friendship. The Islamic Republic of Iran, as one of the birthplaces of this ancient custom, has consistently stressed the importance of dialogue and cultural collaboration among the nations that celebrate Nowruz.

In conclusion, I would like to extend my heartfelt wishes for this auspicious occasion to all our friendly nations. I hope that this year’s Nowruz brings peace, joy, and prosperity to everyone, guiding us towards a future filled with hope, unity, and progress.

Furthermore, I would like to express my gratitude to my esteemed colleagues: Dr. Salehi, the Honorable Minister of Culture; Dr. Sahehi Amiri, the Honorable Minister of Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts, and Tourism; and Dr. Ayoubi, the Secretary of the National Committee for Celebrating Nowruz, for their efforts in organizing this valuable and glorious ceremony.

May you have a victorious New Year. May you enjoy Spring-like occasions.

Stay tuned for more updates on cultural events and celebrations that bring nations closer together.