TEHRAN - The United Nations, in collaboration with the Islamic Republic of Iran, has launched a prestigious exhibition titled “Humanity, Solidarity and One Planet” at Tehran’s Niavaran Cultural-Historical Complex.

Ambassadors, diplomats, cultural heritage experts, and art enthusiasts from various countries attended the inauguration ceremony of the event, which serves as a vibrant testament to the cultural richness and artistic diversity of 35 countries worldwide.

Among the highlights are striking photographs revealing the heartfelt gifts contributed by member states and the public to adorn the UN Headquarters in New York, emphasizing the spirit of unity and cooperation among nations.

According to Stefan Priesner, the UN Resident Coordinator for the Islamic Republic, the works of art in this exhibition should serve as a call for people - irrespective of their gender, race, religion, or nationality, to come together and build societies where compassion reigns, where no one is left behind and where the well-being of both people and the planet regain political priority.

“I wish to thank the participating Embassies, as well as all our national partners. This gratitude is especially towards our colleagues at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts, and the Niavaran Cultural and Historic Complex, which hosted the exhibition,” Priesner said.

According to organizers, visitors to the exhibition have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the artistic offerings of numerous participating countries, including Australia, Austria, Bolivia, Brunei Darussalam, Bulgaria, Chile, China, Côte D'Ivoire, Croatia, Finland, Holy See (Vatican), Hungary, India, Iran, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Malaysia, Mexico, Norway, Pakistan, Philippines, Republic of Korea, Romania, Russian Federation, Slovakia, Spain, Sri Lanka, Switzerland, Ukraine, Venezuela, Yemen, and Zimbabwe.

This exhibition stands as a testament to the United Nations' commitment to promoting cultural diplomacy and fostering mutual respect and appreciation among diverse cultures and nations worldwide.

Each nation's display promises a unique blend of cultural heritage, artistic mastery, and creativity, presenting a mosaic of traditions, perspectives, and narratives that celebrate the global community's shared humanity.

The Niavaran Cultural-Historical Complex serves as an ideal backdrop for this international showcase, fostering cultural exchange and mutual understanding while underscoring the significance of solidarity and collaboration in today's interconnected world. Covering an area of about eleven hectares, the complex is composed of several landmark buildings, museums, and monuments constructed in the 19th and 20th centuries during the Pahlavi and late Qajar eras.

The exhibition as part of the collective effort to mark UN Day 2023 is set to captivate visitors until November 17.

AFM