Pointing to the history of cultural ties between Iran and Austria, Mohammad-Mehdi Esmaeili said that there is a cultural perspective in Iran towards Austria, and Iranians know Austria with its cultural identity, IRNA reported.

The Iranian minister expressed hope that Iran-Austria’s arts and culture ties will develop in parallel with political and economic ties.

“Throughout history, we have enjoyed great cooperation with Austria, and cultural agreements were signed between the two countries in 1976 and also in 2019, based on which we will expand our cultural ties,” Esmaeili noted.

Cultural activities should be reciprocal, and, given Iran’s cultural diversity, if the ground is paved for cultural works in Austria, it will help deepen bilateral relations, the official added.

Referring to the necessity of dialogue between the two states, he also expressed hope for the expansion of mutual cooperation in the fields of cinema, drama, music, and visual arts.

Stressing that Iranian President Seyyed Ebrahim Raeisi pays special attention to the expansion of cultural interactions with other countries, he added that Iran’s president looks at the expansion of cultural ties with other countries as a prelude to further ties in economic and political sectors.

Wolf Dietrichheim said that culture has a special position in Austria and cultural relations are more pronounced than other relations in diplomatic ties for this country.

“We have 30 Austrian associations abroad, one of which is located in Iran, and its history dates back to 60 years ago,” the Austrian envoy said.

Dietrichheim stated that Iran has a long historical and civilizational history, and Austria is interested in introducing Iran’s culture in the country.

The Austrian ambassador also highlighted the expansion of German and Persian language courses in both countries.

Austria is well-known in terms of its classic and modern music and enjoys excellent relations with Iranian composers and music associations, the Austrian official said.

The envoy stated that interfaith dialogue is a necessity for expansion of cultural ties between countries.

Source: Iran Daily