Nowruz diplomacy, neighborly relations
By Afifeh Abedi
Regional affairs expert
Nowruz, one of the old, beautiful, undying, and prominent celebrations and rituals left of the ancient Iranian civilization, is considered a cultural bond that ties together Iran and the countries that once were part of that great civilization. This ritual is celebrated not only in Iran but also in neighboring countries, such as Iraq and Turkey, and even distant countries that traditionally celebrated it, from Central Asia and the Caucasus to the Middle East. Therefore, this tradition can be utilized as an important tool in neighborly relations, as Nowruz has the power to foster convergence among nations and consequently enhance governmental interactions.
Within the realm of Iran lies a territory where the four seasons naturally unfold. Historically and culturally, the spring season, which follows the long and bleak winter and is marked by fatigue and the end of food shortages, is considered a season of transformation that heralds new life. Thus, spring represents a unifying force for people living within the geography of Nowruz. In Nowruz, there are no traces of conflict, idolatry, or hopeless matters; everything there embodies divinity and humanity.
Exercising diplomacy in neighborly relations requires various elements, including hard and soft instruments — each contributing to the realization of a particular aspect of politics. Nowruz stands out as one of these diplomacy instruments.
One prerequisite for neighborly relations is finding common ground with your neighbors, which strengthens bonds. In the cultural geography of Iran, Nowruz is unquestionably one of the most significant commonalities.
Nowruz can enhance tourism ties between Iran and countries located within the Nowruz geography. If harnessed, motivations for developing and completing joint transportation infrastructure would soon follow suit and increase. The tradition of “wearing new garments” in the new year, for example, can contribute to increased interaction in related industries, including textiles, clothing, and Nowruz-related foodstuffs.
The production of television programs about Nowruz and entertaining activities during the Nowruz period is also one of the industries related to Nowruz. Not only does Nowruz provide an avenue for the exchange of such programs for display on the television channels of these countries, but it also serves as a tool for public diplomacy and cultural solidarity.
The splendid and captivating celebration of Nowruz itself and its promotion can even aid in attracting tourists from neighboring countries that fall beyond the Nowruz geography, including those in the Persian Gulf region.
These benefits of utilizing Nowruz in public and economic diplomacy have led to competition among countries that share Nowruz. However, in the cultural geography of Iran, Nowruz is a shared ritual for creating unbreakable bonds. Therefore, when discussing efforts to find connecting links in neighborly relations, attention should be paid to shared aspects such as Nowruz.