Salehi-Amiri Engages with Newly Appointed UN Tourism Secretary-General
In a significant development for the tourism sector, Iran’s Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts, Seyyed Reza Salehi-Amiri, recently engaged with the newly appointed UN Tourism Secretary-General, Shaikha Al Nowais. This meeting took place during the 26th General Assembly of the United Nations, which commenced in Riyadh on Sunday. The discussions primarily focused on enhancing cooperation in sustainable and cultural tourism, as well as boosting international engagement in the realm of cultural heritage.
Salehi-Amiri emphasized Iran’s pivotal role in the global tourism landscape, highlighting the nation’s rich tapestry of historical monuments and cultural treasures. With over one million identified historical sites and 29 UNESCO World Heritage properties, Iran is recognized as one of the foremost nations in preserving human heritage.
“We have set a major goal to double the number of tourists and expand accommodation and service infrastructure in the country’s five-year tourism development plan,” Salehi-Amiri stated, underlining the ambitious targets set by the Iranian government.
During the meeting, Salehi-Amiri extended his congratulations to Shaikha Al Nowais on her recent election as the Secretary-General of the World Tourism Organization. He noted, “We consider the presence of capable women in management fields to be a valuable asset. In Iran’s Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts, a group of successful female managers at both national and provincial levels hold important responsibilities, significantly contributing to productivity and innovation in this sector.”
Salehi-Amiri elaborated on Iran’s diverse tourism offerings, which encompass:
- Cultural tourism
- Historical tourism
- Natural tourism
- Health tourism
He articulated that tourism serves not only as a bridge between nations but also as a vital driver for economic development and a facilitator of dialogue between civilizations. “We are prepared to expand successful sustainable tourism models at the regional level by collaborating more closely with the World Tourism Organization,” he added.
As a part of this collaborative effort, Salehi-Amiri formally invited the Secretary-General of the World Tourism Organization to the upcoming Tehran International Tourism and Related Industries Exhibition, scheduled for February. He described this exhibition as one of the largest tourism events in the region, offering a platform to showcase Iran’s diverse tourism offerings, engage in strategic dialogues, and foster international cooperation.
In her response, Shaikha Al Nowais expressed her appreciation for Iran’s support during her candidacy. She remarked, “Iran is a country with a profound civilization and rich culture, teeming with historical and natural attractions. Strengthening cooperation with Iran can significantly enhance regional tourism and portray the beautiful reality of Iran to the world.”
Highlighting Iran’s active participation in the World Tourism Organization, she affirmed, “We are ready to support Iran’s initiatives to increase its share of global tourism and to enhance its educational, cultural, and international marketing capabilities.”
This meeting marks a pivotal moment in the collaboration between Iran and the World Tourism Organization, underscoring a shared commitment to promoting sustainable tourism and cultural exchange. The efforts highlighted by both Salehi-Amiri and Al Nowais signify a promising future for Iran’s tourism industry, which aims to showcase its rich heritage and natural beauty on the global stage.
As Iran continues to develop its tourism infrastructure and expand its international partnerships, the nation’s potential for growth in the tourism sector appears boundless. By fostering relationships with global organizations, Iran is not only enhancing its cultural visibility but also encouraging international visitors to explore its numerous historical and natural wonders.
With the Tehran International Tourism and Related Industries Exhibition on the horizon, stakeholders in Iran’s tourism sector are optimistic about the opportunities that lie ahead. The event will serve as a crucial venue for networking, showcasing innovations, and discussing strategies to attract more international tourists to Iran.
In conclusion, Iran’s proactive approach to engaging with international tourism bodies is set to pave the way for a vibrant and sustainable tourism future, ensuring that the country’s rich cultural heritage is shared and celebrated worldwide.