TEHRAN - Iran’s Tourism Minister, Seyyed Reza Salehi-Amiri, has called for efforts to change global perceptions of Iran, promoting tourism and positioning Yazd as a gateway for this transformation.

Speaking at a meeting of the Government-Private Sector Dialogue Council in Yazd on Thursday, Salehi-Amiri highlighted the importance of overcoming misconceptions and presenting Iran, particularly Yazd, as a safe and appealing destination for tourists.

“We must break the lock of Iranophobia,” he stated. “Iran is secure, but the media has created a perception of insecurity. This challenge requires a unified effort across all sectors.”

Salehi-Amiri suggested that Yazd could serve as a platform to challenge misconceptions about Iran, asserting that increased tourism could bolster national power. “When our oil is used abroad, it generates revenue, just as our tourism does, showing our national soft power,” he remarked.

In his address, Salehi-Amiri expressed his dedication to supporting Yazd and its virtuous people. He described Yazd as a symbol of national unity and an example of social and administrative cohesion. The official expressed optimism that with the removal of obstacles, Yazd could experience significant progress and become a major tourist hub.

The minister stressed that a shift in priorities is needed, with tourism becoming a top focus. “Countries that have achieved leaps in tourism and investment have prioritized this sector,” he said.

Salehi-Amiri emphasized that stakeholders in this sector have the capacity to drive change in perceptions and beliefs, which could help create jobs and promote the production of handicrafts domestically.

He mentioned the necessity of doubling exports and tourism, which would only be possible through mutual understanding and agreement. “Our soft power should create a positive image of beautiful Iran,” he noted, adding that Iran’s handicrafts can help convey the country’s culture to the world.

The minister identified “believing in the private sector and investors” as the first step and argued that reliance on the government alone will not achieve desired goals. “For years, we have seen this issue, and it requires urgent action to remove obstacles in the path of these individuals and to encourage investment,” he said.

Salehi-Amiri stated that all resources would be utilized to remove these obstacles, emphasizing the critical role of investors in achieving success.

Salehi-Amiri arrived in Yazd on Wednesday for a two-day visit, during which he explored the province’s tourism potential.

XF