The minister emphasizes the cultural importance of Isfahan at the Iran-Africa conference

Tehran-in a speech that marked the end of the third Iran-Africa conference for economic cooperation in Isfahan, the city of Reza Salehi-Amiri described the city as a “symbol of Iranian civilization”.

On behalf of President Masoud Pezeshkian, Salehi-Amiri welcomed delegates from 38 African nations and commented on “the land of history, civilization and culture” for her visit.

On Thursday, May 1st, the minister said that the election of Isfahan as an event location was intentionally and emphasized its crucial role in Iranian history, culture and development.

“Isfahan is not only the cultural and civilizational center of Iran, but also a magnetic goal that embodies both material and spiritual beauty,” he explained. “His artistic heritage, the economic potential and academic excellence make it a strong center of influence.”

Salehi-Amiri also emphasized the diverse identity of the city, of the core of art and music command on the globally known painter Mahmoud Farshchian-to a leading center for industry, medicine, science and artificial intelligence. “A considerable number of the most influential scientists in Iran have roots in this region,” he noted.

Salehi-Amiri turned to Iran-Africa and underlined the importance of improving cooperation. “Africa is a continent of deeply rooted civilization, the rich culture and immense potential,” he said.

The minister criticized what he described as “Iranophobia”, which immortalized the global powers and argued that it distorted the true image of Iran. “Despite these efforts, more than 7.3 million foreign tourists visited Iran in 2024,” he said, adding that over 85% of visitors rated their experiences with the Iranian attractions as excellent in the re -attempts.

Salehi-Amiri invited the African scientists, entrepreneurs and academics to visit Iran. “Iran houses more than a million historical sites – no other place in the world offers this selection of the inheritance,” he said.

The five-day conference for economic cooperation in Iran-Africa, which was organized jointly by the Iranian Ministry of Industry, Minen and Trade and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, began in Tehran and ended in Isfahan. It fell with the Iran Expo 2025, the seventh exhibition of the export capabilities of the Islamic Republic of Iran, which took place in Tehran from April 28 to May 2.

AM