Sister cities of Isfahan, Romania’s Iasi to revive cultural cooperation
Romanian Ambassador to Iran Mirela Carmen Greco engaged with Isfahan Governor General Mehdi Jamalinejad to explore avenues for enhancing cultural and economic collaboration between Romanian city of Iasi and Iranian historical city of Isfahan.
The discussions highlighted the importance of nurturing ties with the city of Iasi, a sister city to Isfahan, IRNA reported.
The city of Iasi and Isfahan were announced as sister cities in 1999, to further expand their bilateral cultural and economic cooperations.
Jamalinejad expressed optimism about rekindling the robust relationship he established years ago as mayor of Isfahan. “I hope this close connection will continue to flourish,” he stated, emphasizing the potential for reviving initiatives outlined in previous agreements between Isfahan and Iasi.
The dialogue also touched on the long-standing agreements between University of Isfahan, Isfahan Art University, and various Romanian institutions, IRNA reported.
Jamalinejad pointed out the Romanian request for introducing Persian language and literature courses in Romanian universities, stressing the need for prompt action on this matter.
Plus, the governor general mentioned existing collaborations in music and handicrafts, including a proposed partnership between the Sepahan Football Club of Isfahan and a football club in Iasi.
He noted that the Isfahan Chamber of Commerce had submitted a draft cooperation agreement to its Romanian counterpart, which remains unsigned.
Jamlinejad highlighted the historical, economic, and cultural synergies between Isfahan and Iasi, suggesting that the potential for mutual cooperation is substantial.
He expressed a desire for systematic engagement, announcing plans for tourism programs aimed at fostering connections between Isfahan and Romanian tourism professionals.
Ambassador Greco echoed these sentiments, revealing that both the mayor and governor of Iasi are keen to continue their collaboration with Isfahan. Reflecting on her first visit to Isfahan four years ago, she expressed a commitment to fostering genuine partnerships rather than symbolic gestures.
Greco noted the significance of the recent 120th anniversary of cooperation between Iran and Romania, during which numerous agreements were signed. She acknowledged the contributions of artisans from Isfahan who have showcased their talents in Romania and emphasized the urgency of finalizing a memorandum of understanding between universities in Isfahan and Iasi.
“We are fully prepared to activate the terms of our cooperation agreement,” she affirmed, while also addressing the challenges faced by University of Isfahan in facilitating Persian language programs in Romania due to technical issues.
The envoy underscored the importance of cultural diplomacy, mentioning an upcoming international arts festival in Iasi, where Isfahan will be represented by a female artist specializing in ceramics.
She described the festival as an opportunity to showcase the innovative intersection of traditional craftsmanship and modern technology.
Responding to Jamalinejad’s proposal to lift visa requirements for Romanian tourists, Greco assured that many Romanians are eager to visit Iran, regardless of visa restrictions. “Iran is a beautiful and cherished destination for Romanian travelers,” she stated.
Jamalinejad instructed his team to address the hurdles faced by University of Isfahan in establishing Persian language programs in Romania.
He also extended an invitation for Romanian cultural and academic groups to visit Isfahan for special sessions organized by the municipality, which would include tours of historic sites in the region.