TEHRAN- Iranian Minister of Culture and Islamic Guidance Mohammad-Mehdi Esmaeili has emphasized the importance of cultural cooperation between Shanghai Cooperation Organization Member States. 

He made the remarks during the 21st Meeting of the Ministers of Culture of Member States of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), which was held online at the Tehran International Book Fair on Wednesday morning, ISNA reported. 

Esmaeili stressed that the world is facing numerous challenges, including economic, political, and cultural ones, and that cultural cooperation is crucial to addressing these challenges. 

He noted that the Western world is trying to impose its culture on non-Western societies, and that it is essential for SCO member states to promote their own cultural heritage.

The minister emphasized that each SCO member state has its own unique cultural identity, shaped by its history and traditions and added: “In addition to national aspects, we must strive to introduce and promote the outstanding cultural characteristics of SCO member states.”

This meeting is crucial in explaining the authenticity of Eastern cultures and promoting influential opinions on global culture, he noted.

The minister emphasized that Islam, a religion of peace and friendship, promotes equality and brotherhood. 

He emphasized that cultural commonalities, such as traditions and customs, can be a strong bond between nations in the region, leading to greater understanding and better outcomes.

The minister praised the wisdom of the SCO's founders in establishing an organization that prioritizes people's security and fighting extremism and terrorism.

“It is our responsibility as SCO member states to work towards achieving this goal,” Esmaili emphasized. He noted that the world is currently facing a grave injustice perpetrated by the Zionist regime against the Palestinian people, and that we must react to this atrocity by promoting cultural cooperation and preventing the destruction of national identities by Zionism.

The minister concluded his speech by proposing two practical initiatives to promote cultural cooperation among SCO member states. The first proposal is to hold the second Shanghai Cooperation Organization International Film Festival in Tehran, while the second proposal is to establish a Shanghai Cooperation Organization film union. He emphasized that film is a powerful tool for conveying messages.

SAB/