TEHRAN – Iran’s ambassador to India has emphasized the importance of tourism as a bridge for deepening the longstanding cultural and people-to-people ties between the two nations.

Speaking to ANI on the sidelines of a roadshow tourism event organized by the Islamic Republic, Iraj Elahi called for renewed efforts to enhance mutual understanding and tourism exchanges.

“Iran and India have shared strong people-to-people relations for centuries. Tourism is the best symbol of these relations, and it is time to strengthen this connection,” Elahi said on Friday.

The envoy noted that, in recent years, [public] knowledge about developments in both nations has diminished, with many Indians unaware of Iran’s progress and vice versa.

“We initiated this event to collaborate, to think together, and to find ways to promote tourism between our two countries,” he said, highlighting the roadshow as an opportunity for stakeholders to explore ways of boosting tourism flows.

Elahi stressed that the goal is not limited to encouraging Indian tourists to visit Iran but also includes fostering a reciprocal flow of travelers.

“As the ambassador of Iran, one of my duties is to attract Iranian tourists to India, while also working to bring Indian tourists to Iran.” It is a two-way street, he explained.

To make travel easier for Indian nationals, Iran has taken several steps, including the exemption of passport holders from visa requirements. Elahi further explained, “Indians do not need to scan their passports when entering or leaving Iran, and there are no concerns about potential restrictions on visiting other countries after traveling to Iran.”

“As the ambassador of Iran, one of my duties is to attract Iranian tourists to India, while also working to bring Indian tourists to Iran.” It is a two-way street, Elahi said.Asked about the potential impact of geopolitical tensions, particularly the ongoing discord between Iran and the Zionist regime of Israel, on tourism, Elahi downplayed any significant effect.

“The current tension between Iran and Israel is not a new thing. For more than 40 years, we’ve had this tension. Israel is waiting for Iran’s retaliation, and we will respond at the right time…,” he stated confidently.

Elsewhere in his remarks, Elahi acknowledged that travel advisories from India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) may sometimes deter tourists, but noted that travelers from Europe and other parts of the world are increasingly visiting Iran despite these concerns.

“We are witnessing an increase in tourism from different countries, particularly from Europe. They are conscious of the geopolitical situation, but they are still coming to Iran,” he pointed out.

In a direct appeal to Indian travelers, Elahi extended a personal invitation. “I invite the people of India to come and see Iran for what it really is.

The envoy then talked about anti-Iran propaganda spread by some mass media, saying: “Unfortunately, the mainstream media is giving misinformation, trying to manipulate perceptions.”

He noted that Indian passport holders can easily travel to Iran on direct flights without a visa. It’s just a three-and-a-half-hour flight, and they can buy good souvenirs from Iran,” he said.

Elahi’s remarks reflected Iran’s broader effort to revitalize tourism exchanges with India and counter misconceptions that may deter travelers. By easing visa requirements and addressing logistical hurdles, Iran aims to attract Indian tourists while encouraging more Iranians to explore India as well.

The ambassador’s remarks came during the Iranian roadshow, which is scheduled to take place from September 10 to 14 in three major Indian cities: Mumbai, Hyderabad, and New Delhi. The event is part of a broader effort by Iran to rejuvenate its tourism sector by attracting more visitors while also encouraging Iranians to explore India’s diverse landscapes and culture.

AM