TEHRAN-The CEO of the Rudaki Foundation Mohammad Allahyari Foumani met with the First Secretary of the Russian Embassy in Iran Lilia Votinova in Tehran on Monday and discussed the expansion of cultural and artistic activities of the two countries centered around the Rudaki Foundation.

Highlighting Russia’s artistic capacities and the Rudaki Foundation’s potential, Allahyari Foumani said: “Given its cultural and artistic standing in the country, along with its infrastructure, various halls, and the Azadi Tower, the Rudaki Foundation can serve as an ideal venue for cultural and artistic exchanges between our two nations,” ILNA quoted him as saying.

Referring to joint international programs with Russia, including the participation of the National Symphony Orchestra in the 2018 World Cup in Russia and the National Orchestra’s performance during Iran Cultural Week in Russia, he added: “Considering the abundant musical and artistic capacities in both countries, establishing a bridge of communication and introducing cultural and artistic foundations that align with the Rudaki Foundation can lead to significant strides in cultural diplomacy and enhanced bilateral interactions.”

Votinova, for her part, announced her readiness to expand collaborations across various artistic domains and shared her interest in joint programs. Furthermore, she discussed exploring strategies for expanding cooperation through the signing and implementation of memoranda of understanding. 

“We will strive to encourage cultural and artistic organizations in both countries to engage in reciprocal collaboration,” she added.

Proposals discussed during the meeting included fostering cultural connections and exchanges with Russian artistic foundations, facilitating the participation of delegations in reputable festivals in Iran and Russia, organizing joint exhibitions in the visual arts, inviting guest conductors for the Tehran Symphony Orchestra, and hosting shared cultural weeks. All initiatives aim to strengthen cultural ties and promote artistic dialogue between the two nations.

SS/SAB