Mashhad hosts cultural diplomacy conference
Experts stress the global significance of pilgrimage culture, calling for innovative strategies to expand Islamic civilization through soft power and intercultural dialogue
MASHHAD, Iran (MNTV) — The second specialized conference on cultural diplomacy, centered on pilgrimage and the Ahl al-Bayt tradition, convened in Mashhad on Friday during the 21st Imam Reza (AS) International Festival.
With participation from the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Islamic Culture and Relations Organization (ICRO), and scholars from Lebanon, Australia, and other countries, the event focused on strengthening Iran’s cultural influence and global presence through Razavi diplomacy.
Thirteen speakers explored the strategic potential of cultural initiatives. Sheikh Jafar Al-Mohajer of Lebanon presented recent publications offering a revised historical narrative of Shia Islam and appealed for international support amid Lebanon’s economic crisis.
Sheikh Zaid Alsalami from Australia discussed identity challenges faced by Muslim youth in the West, urging greater use of English-language content and social media to raise awareness of pilgrimage traditions.
Hamidreza Arbab Soleimani, deputy minister of Culture, described cultural diplomacy as a universal mission that extends Iran’s message of peace and unity beyond borders.
MP Hassan-Ali Akhlaghi proposed transforming Mashhad into a free scientific zone to support spiritual and academic development.
Veteran Hossein Yekta emphasized the need to communicate with younger generations using artificial intelligence and storytelling.
Cultural expert Hamidreza Mahdavi Arfa noted that while the West uses culture as a tool for politics, Iran views culture as a goal in itself.
The conference concluded with a shared commitment to language-sensitive outreach and global engagement.
It ran alongside the broader Imam Reza (AS) International Festival, which promotes cultural and spiritual values through diverse artistic and literary mediums.
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