TEHRAN – The capital city of Ashgabat hosted a joint tourism festival highlighting the cultural heritage and tourism potential of Iran and Turkmenistan, underscoring the deep-rooted relationship between the two neighbors.

The three-day event, which concluded on Thursday, brought together government officials, diplomats, tourism representatives, and business leaders from both countries to promote cooperation and mutual understanding.

Tourism cooperation on the rise

During the opening ceremony, Akiniyaz Agamuradov, head of the Tourism Department at the Ministry of Culture of Turkmenistan, expressed his satisfaction with the growing tourism collaboration between the two countries.

“We are witnessing steady progress in the tourism sector under the leadership of the President of Turkmenistan. Tourism plays a crucial role in the economic development of any country, and in Turkmenistan, great efforts have been made to develop this sector,” Agamuradov stated.

He also highlighted the growing interest of international travelers in Turkmenistan’s historical and cultural landmarks, such as Nisa, Dehistan, Konye-Urgench, and ancient Merv.

The official also emphasized Turkmenistan’s unique position along the historic Silk Road, referring to it as the “crossroads of the seven roads of the world,” connecting the East and West. Promoting the country’s tourism offerings internationally and enhancing cooperation with neighboring countries remain central goals, which, he noted, would further strengthen regional tourism ties.

Economic and cultural impact of tourism

Ali-Mojtaba Rouzbehani, Iran’s ambassador to Turkmenistan, underscored the multifaceted nature of tourism. “Tourism is both a cultural and economic exchange,” he said. “While it promotes cultural understanding, it also plays a significant role in boosting economic relations, often referred to by economists as ‘invisible exports.’”

Moreover, Rouzbehani cited the UN Tourism’s data, indicating that over 1.5 billion people travel internationally each year, generating nearly $2 trillion in revenue. He added that tourism now stands as the world’s largest service industry, contributing to one in every ten jobs globally.

Highlighting Iran’s attractions, the ambassador said: “Iran is known for its rich cultural, historical, and natural heritage, making tourism one of the country’s largest and most diverse economic sectors.” He also stressed the growing cooperation between Iran and Turkmenistan, noting increased cultural exchanges, mutual visits, and events like Nowruz celebrations and other tourism festivals.

Shared heritage and tourism potential

Furthermore, a Turkmen tourism professor spoke about the deep historical and cultural ties between the two countries. “Culture has always served as a bridge between people,” he remarked, pointing out that both nations have long exchanged knowledge in art, language, and history.

The professor highlighted the potential for tourism development in both countries, referring to Turkmenistan’s famous attractions like ancient Merv, Konye-Urgench, and its renowned hospitality, and Iran’s global reputation for landmarks such as Persepolis and Isfahan. Joint tourism initiatives, he said, could attract both regional and international visitors, fostering economic growth and strengthening cultural ties.

Hope for deeper cooperation and closer ties

Navid Rasouli, Iran’s Cultural Attaché in Turkmenistan, emphasized the importance of tourism in today’s global economy. “Tourism is recognized as the world’s largest revenue-generating service industry,” he noted, adding that it accounts for one-third of global trade in services.

Rasouli praised the strong tourism potential of both countries, noting their shared cultural heritage and historical connections. “This festival aims to promote these commonalities and expand tourism cooperation between Iran and Turkmenistan,” he said. Rasouli expressed hope that such events would foster closer bonds between the two nations.

Festival highlights and participation

The three-day featured booths showcasing the tourism capabilities of nine Iranian tourism companies, one hotel, and several handicraft traders. Eleven tourism companies from Turkmenistan are also participating.

According to organizers, visitors, including diplomats and officials, had the opportunity to explore the offerings from both nations, engage with tourism representatives, and sample traditional Iranian and Turkmen delicacies.

The festival is seen as a crucial step in expanding bilateral tourism and cultural exchanges between Iran and Turkmenistan, paving the way for future collaborations and a deeper understanding between the two neighboring peoples.

AM