The second gathering of Iranian intellectuals and elites residing in Austria was hosted in Vienna. This important event featured a speech by Hojjatoleslam Mohammad Mehdi Imani Pour, the head of the Islamic Culture and Relations Organization, discussing the challenges and cultural capacities of Iranians abroad.
The Necessity of Strengthening Cultural Ties
The meeting "Gathering of Elite Iranians Residing in Austria" was held at the Iranian Cultural Attaché's office (House of Iranian Wisdom). Reza Gholami, a university professor and cultural attaché of Iran in Austria, welcomed the guests and emphasized the fundamental role of the people and elites in the country's progress. He noted that no factor is as empowering as the maximum cooperation of the people, and to achieve significant progress, we need to expand the sense of belonging to Iran.
Gholami also referred to the valuable capacities of Iranians abroad, adding that these individuals can play a significant role in shaping and expanding cultural participation. The cultural associations established by Iranians in Austria and other European countries are platforms that can transform these capacities into effective opportunities for interaction and synergy.
The Role of Iranians in Introducing Culture and Civilization
Hojjatoleslam Dr. Mohammad Mehdi Imani Pour, expressing his happiness to be among Iranians residing in Austria, referred to the shared empathy and concerns of the attendees for helping the country and emphasized the necessity of strengthening solidarity and cooperation among Iranians abroad.
Imani Pour, pointing to Iran's scientific, cultural, and human capacities, identified one of the obstacles to utilizing these capabilities as the diminished self-belief among some Iranians. He stated that the scientific advancements of the country, the achievements of the youth, and their successes in international competitions deserve broader recognition on the global stage.
The head of the Islamic Culture and Relations Organization emphasized the importance of preserving Iranian identity alongside constructive interaction with host communities, considering the Persian language as one of the most important identity links for Iranians and stressing the need to support its education and expansion abroad.
Imani Pour also highlighted the importance of documenting and reflecting globally on the significant and inhumane tragedies of the recent imposed war, mentioning the tragedy of the Shajareh Tayebeh school in Minab, where 168 students along with their teachers were martyred. He emphasized the necessity of utilizing cultural, literary, and artistic capacities to narrate this inhumane event.
In conclusion, Hojjatoleslam Imani Pour expressed his satisfaction with the formation of such gatherings and deemed the continuation and expansion of dialogue among Iranians abroad essential. This meeting continued with discussions and exchanges regarding the most important issues and cultural concerns of Iranians abroad, addressing the challenges and opportunities present in this field.
