Iranian Ambassador to Russia Kazem Jalali: Our country looks forward to developing cultural ties with BRICS members

Iran's accession to BRICS will lead to the active development of cultural ties between Iran and the alliance members, Iran's Ambassador to Russia Kazem Jalali said in an exclusive commentary to TV BRICS. The diplomat was speaking at the celebration of Nowruz (Iranian New Year, March 21) at the Institute of Oriental Studies of the Russian Academy of Sciences.

"Iran's accession to BRICS will help actively develop the republic's cultural ties with the member states of the alliance. They undoubtedly possess cultural riches, and exchange in this sphere will benefit all its participants," the ambassador said.

Asked how the holiday is celebrated in Iran, he said the most important tradition is to visit friends and relatives.

"Children visit their parents and those who are younger come to visit their elders. People also travel and take holidays. Many try to help those in need – this is important. In general, it is a holiday of kindness and joy, strengthening family relations," Kazem Jalali explained. He noted that the Iranian Embassy tries not to forget the traditions of the New Year, while observing the fasting month of Ramadan.

"It is Ramadan now, so we invited many colleagues to iftar (evening meal). In general, we try to preserve the traditions we have in our country," the diplomat said.

President of the Ibn Sina Islamic Culture Research Foundation, Hamid Hadavimogaddam, said in a commentary to TV BRICS that Iran is looking forward to developing cultural ties with the alliance countries.

"The republic's entry into the alliance has brought about economic and political changes. But of course we cannot write off the cultural ones, which of course will also be constructive. And Iran has repeatedly stated at the official level that it seeks to pursue an active international policy," the head of the foundation said during the event.

Photo: TV BRICS