Minister: Iran targets rising tourists from neighboring countries for Nowruz
Iran’s Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts, Reza Salehi Amiri, announced ongoing efforts to attract international visitors, particularly during the Nowruz holiday season.
Speaking at Sari International Airport, the minister emphasized the importance of engaging with neighboring countries around the Caspian Sea, Central Asia, and the Caucasus region, IRNA reported.
Salehi Amiri, who was in Mazandaran province to assess the local tourism landscape, cultural heritage sites, and handicraft industries, added, “Mazandaran, as a primary destination for tourists, requires significant improvements in its tourism infrastructure.”
He added that the development of tourism in the region hinges on the establishment of necessary facilities and services. “We are in dire need of transformation in the areas of cultural heritage, tourism, and handicrafts,” he added.
The minister also outlined the government’s fresh initiatives aimed at attracting tourists from various countries, adding, “The government is particularly focused on investment and tourism from Central Asia, the Caucasus, and Nowruz-associated countries.”
He revealed that discussions are underway with Tajikistan, Armenia, Uzbekistan, and Georgia to foster tourism opportunities linked to the Nowruz celebrations.
Likewise, Salehi Amiri highlighted the need for collaboration with Gulf countries such as Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Bahrain to bolster tourism in the Persian Gulf region. “We are establishing special partnerships with these nations to enhance tourism prospects,” he noted.
As he commended the significance of the anniversary of 1979 Islamic Revolution, the minister expressed optimism, “This period presents a great opportunity to realize the ideals of our revolution. The government has a responsibility to leverage this time to serve the public effectively.” He emphasized that addressing the people’s concerns is paramount.
In a significant development for cultural preservation, Salehi Amiri stated that the Mayor’s Building Museum in Qaem Shahr is set to officially open by mid-next year. During his visit to the historic site, constructed in 1926 and registered as a national monument in 1977, he referred to a previous memorandum of understanding between the municipality and the Mazandaran’s Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts Department.
He announced that a meeting will take place next week with local officials to update and revise this agreement.
Salehi Amiri further highlighted the necessity of strengthening infrastructure in the tourism-rich region of Nesum Forest Park in Savadkuh.
He toured the lush Nesum Forest Park, assessing its recreational and accommodation facilities, and engaged with investors involved in a resort project there, issuing directives for addressing various issues raised.
During his visit, he reiterated the importance of improving tourism infrastructure in the area to attract more visitors. “We must enhance our facilities to transform this region into a more appealing destination for travelers,” he insisted.
Nestled in northern Iran, the Nesum Forest Park is renowned for its pristine nature and verdant forests, making it one of the most attractive tourist spots in the region. The presence of valuable wildlife, including species like Roe deer and red deer, along with its abundant water valleys, further contributes to its appeal.
The three-day visit by the minister is aimed at evaluating tourism projects, participating in provincial tourism conferences, and meeting with local officials to discuss the future of tourism in Mazandaran.