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On 16 March 2025, the UNESCO Tehran Office, and the Iranian National Commission for UNESCO, hosted a remarkable event at the Parsian Evin Hotel to celebrate the UNESCO-recognized traditions of Nowruz and Iftar. This joint celebration of the Persian New Year and the sacred month of Ramadan highlighted the power of intangible cultural heritage in uniting people across cultures and generations.

Held at the Parsian Evin Hotel, the event brought together a distinguished gathering of H.E. Mr. Hossein Simaei Sarraf, Minister of Science, Research, and Technology, along with esteemed ambassadors, members of the diplomatic community, representatives of the UN and UNESCO family, Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Foreign affairs, Department of environment, and renowned cultural and scientific figures. The celebration served as a platform to highlight the importance of intangible cultural heritage in fostering mutual understanding, social harmony, and intercultural dialogue.

The ceremony began with welcome speeches delivered by Ieng Srong, Head of the UNESCO Tehran Office, and Mr. Hassan Fartousi, Secretary-General of the Iranian National Commission for UNESCO. Both speakers emphasized the significance of Nowruz and Iftar in strengthening shared cultural identity and promoting intercultural understanding.

Ieng Srong noted:

"Nowruz and Iftar are more than just cultural rituals; they are powerful symbols of human solidarity, renewal, and harmony with nature, celebrated across borders and generations. These traditions bring people together, transcending language, geography, and cultural differences."

Mr. Hassan Fartousi emphasized the enduring importance of these rituals:

"These traditions are a testament to the power of cultural heritage in shaping human connections. Nowruz and Iftar continue to serve as symbols of unity and shared values, fostering a deeper sense of belonging across the globe."

Mr. Hossein Simaei Sarraf, Minister of Science, Research, and Technology, also addressed the audience, reflecting on the profound meaning of Nowruz and Iftar in the context of both the “Spring of the Quran” and the “Spring of Nature.”

He stated:

"For centuries, Iran has been at the heart of cultural exchange, influencing global civilization. As we approach the year 1404 (2025), the fusion of spirituality and nature is embodied in Nowruz and Iftar, both of which promote the values of unity, compassion, and renewal."

The Minister also celebrated Iran’s role in globalizing these cultural practices through cooperation with neighboring countries, including Azerbaijan, Turkey, and Uzbekistan.

"Through UNESCO’s efforts and collaboration with these nations, we have ensured that Nowruz and Iftar are celebrated not only in Iran but also across the world. These celebrations are a testament to the strength of our shared human values."

A special message from Mr. Xing Qu, Deputy Director-General of UNESCO, was shared during the event, emphasizing UNESCO’s longstanding partnership with Iran over the past 75 years. He acknowledged Iran's leadership in preserving and promoting cultural heritage, both tangible and intangible, and recognized its contributions to the global cultural dialogue.

The Nowruz and Iftar celebration was a testament to UNESCO’s ongoing commitment to preserving and promoting intangible cultural heritage. By organizing such events, the UNESCO Tehran Office and NatCom aim to raise awareness of cultural diversity, promote dialogue between nations, and support sustainable cultural development.

This event also strengthened collaboration between national and international stakeholders, highlighting the shared responsibility of governments, cultural institutions, and communities in protecting and transmitting intangible heritage.

By bringing together leaders, cultural experts, and artists, the celebration not only honored Iran’s centuries-old traditions but also underscored the power of heritage in building bridges of understanding across cultures.

The event concluded with a heartfelt expression of gratitude to the attendees and participants, acknowledging their role in ensuring that Nowruz and Iftar, along with other intangible cultural practices, continue to thrive. This event not only celebrated cultural heritage but also underscored the global importance of unity, understanding, and respect for cultural diversity.

As the evening drew to a close, the guests reflected on the shared values that bind humanity together and the role that cultural heritage plays in shaping a more peaceful and interconnected world.