TEHRAN- In a press conference held in Tehran on Saturday, Iran's Minister of Culture and Islamic Guidance, Mohammad-Mehdi Esmaeili, highlighted Iran's preparedness to engage in joint cultural, artistic, media, and cinematic ventures with neighboring countries, particularly Turkey, Afghanistan, and Iraq.

Esmaeili acknowledged the significance of Turkey as an important regional partner in terms of cultural ties, stating that the two countries have witnessed fruitful collaborations in the artistic and media sectors in recent times.

Moreover, he underscored the shared cultural and civilizational heritage between Iran and Turkey, emphasizing the extensive cultural breadth encompassed by Iranian territory, which numerous countries endorse as part of their common legacy.

Addressing the subject of cultural interactions between Iran and Afghanistan, Esmaeili expressed the desire to normalize relations in the realms of culture, art, and media. Stressing the historical connections between the two nations, he firmly stated that political borders should not create barriers to cultural exchange between their respective populations.

Regarding Afghan artists, the Minister confirmed their full support in their creative pursuits within Iran. 

Notably, collaborations in the media sector have already commenced, fostering broader artistic alliances, he added. 

Furthermore, Esmaeili deemed the Kurdish regions of Iran and Iraq as a shared cultural sphere, expressing optimism about fostering successful joint initiatives in the near future.

The Minister also highlighted that the Islamic Republic has created a conducive environment for the return of Iranians residing abroad, reiterating that Iran belongs to every Iranian whose heart beats for their homeland. Esmaeili emphasized that each citizen holds the right to reside in Iran, and the government sees itself as their servant, bearing the responsibility to protect this entitlement.

Regarding the return of Iranian artists, Esmaeili revealed that there have been no requests unfulfilled.

Emphasizing the commitment to support the cultural, artistic, and media community, Esmaeili affirmed that every Iranian, whether inside or outside the country, is served by the government.

SAB/