TEHRAN - Iran is currently hosting a group of European motorcyclist tourists, known as “international peace ambassadors,” in a symbolic event that reflects the country’s high level of security and hospitality on the global stage, a tourism official has said.

Their journey through Iran, which began on October 12 and will conclude on October 21, involves 16 motorcyclists from various European countries, including Spain, Italy, and Portugal, Moslem Shojaei added on Thursday.

Shojaei, who is presides over the marketing and foreign tourism development at Iran’s Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts, noted that the motorcyclists entered Iran from the Turkish border as part of a transcontinental tour from Italy to Kathmandu, Nepal.

He further emphasized that the visit aligns with the UN Tourism’s 2024 theme of “Tourism and Peace,” underscoring Iran’s peaceful environment and hospitality.

Since their arrival, the caravan has visited several cities and towns, including Urmia, Marivan, Uramanat Takht, Paveh, and Kermanshah, before heading toward Lorestan and Doroud.

“From there, the group continued through Markazi province and made stops in Khansar and Isfahan. A formal reception was organized in Isfahan’s Naqsh-e Jahan Square to honor the visitors.”

Following their time in Isfahan, the tourists will journey to Kerman and Bam before heading to Zahedan. They will exit Iran via the Taftan border and continue their journey into Pakistan, the official said.

Shojaei highlighted the importance of the tour, noting that the 12,000-kilometer journey aims to promote global peace while also showcasing Iran’s safety and welcoming atmosphere.

“In today’s climate, when certain media outlets and countries attempt to project an image of insecurity in Iran, this event sends a clear message: Iran is a safe destination, fully prepared to host international tourists,” he stated.

Moreover, the official emphasized that the motorcyclists, traveling across Iran by road with their personal vehicles, act as ambassadors of goodwill. “Their presence here demonstrates the highest level of security in the country, dispelling misconceptions and encouraging others to visit Iran,” Shojaei said.

Earlier in September, the tourism minister Seyyed Reza Salehi-Amiri called for extra efforts to change some global perceptions of Iran. “We must break the lock of Iranophobia,” he stated.

“Iran is secure, but [a number of Western] media outlets are spreading a perception of insecurity. This challenge requires a unified effort across all sectors.”

The Islamic Republic expects to reap a bonanza from its numerous tourist spots such as bazaars, museums, mosques, bridges, bathhouses, madrasas, mausoleums, churches, towers, and mansions, of which 28 are inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

AM