TEHRAN – Iranian and Indian tourism officials have met to pave the way for enhanced bilateral cooperation in cultural heritage and tourism, marking a new chapter in the long-lasting relations between the two nations.

Ali Darabi, Iranian Deputy Minister of Cultural Heritage, and Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Indian Minister of Culture and Tourism, met on Wednesday to discuss enhancing bilateral cooperation in cultural heritage and tourism, on the sidelines of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee meeting.

The meeting focused on developing a comprehensive joint program for tangible and intangible cultural heritage, facilitating visa issuance for tourist groups, and organizing joint cultural and tourism exhibitions, CHTN reported.

During the meeting, Darabi underscored that advancing cultural and economic collaboration, particularly in tourism, reflects a longstanding aspiration shared by both the Iranian people and government.

Highlighting the shared cultural heritage between Iran and India, he referenced the inclusion of Nowruz in the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list, which involved Indian participation. “Numerous opportunities exist to further develop cooperation in this area,” The Iranian envoy added.

Mentioning Iran’s unilateral visa waiver initiative, Darabi suggested that such measures could significantly boost tourism between the two nations.

Moreover, welcoming the Iranian delegation, Indian minster emphasized the deep historical and cultural ties between Iran and India, stating that these longstanding relations could significantly expand in cultural heritage and tourism.

Shekhawat pinpointed the potential for joint cultural and tourism exhibitions and expressed support for initiatives that could enhance cooperation in these areas.
XF/AM