Iran’s membership on UN tourism board extended
Isfahan named host for 2025 regional summit
Iran has retained its seat on the Executive Council of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) for another four-year term and will host the organization’s next major regional meeting in 2025, officials confirmed following a key summit in Indonesia.
Speaking at the 60th meeting of the UNWTO Regional Commission for Asia and the Pacific in Jakarta, Iran’s Deputy Minister of Tourism Anoushirvan Mohseni-Bandpey said the Islamic Republic will continue to represent South Asia on the top policy-making body for global tourism, alongside India.
The reappointment comes after months of diplomatic engagement aimed at securing Iran’s position within the council, which plays a critical role in shaping international tourism strategy and cooperation.
“This is a significant gain that reinforces Iran’s active presence in global tourism policymaking,” Mohseni-Bandpey said.
He emphasized that the tourism sector is “highly sensitive to international cooperation” and stressed the importance of real-time data and collaboration for effective planning.
Iran has held a seat on the council for the past decade. According to officials, this continuity reflects years of targeted outreach by the country’s foreign tourism marketing and development office.
Council membership provides access to expert consultation, specialized training, and advanced statistical modeling through Tourism Satellite Accounts (TSA), all of which are vital for national planning.
In addition to its ongoing involvement in the UNWTO’s Silk Road initiative, Iran has also received institutional support for the launch of an international center for tourism research and development, to be established in collaboration with the organization.
In a further win for Iranian tourism diplomacy, the UNWTO announced that the central city of Isfahan will host the 38th session of the UNWTO Commission for East Asia and the Pacific in 2025. The decision was endorsed by a majority of over 30 member states attending the Jakarta meetings.
Iran’s delegation, led by Mohseni-Bandpey, formally presented Isfahan’s candidacy, highlighting the city’s historical significance and tourism potential. A promotional video showcasing Isfahan’s cultural and architectural heritage was also screened.
“This is a milestone in Iran’s tourism diplomacy,” Mohseni-Bandpey said following the vote. “Hosting high-profile international events is a strategic priority for strengthening Iran’s global tourism standing.”
The UNWTO, headquartered in Madrid, is the United Nations’ specialized agency for tourism, tasked with promoting sustainable, inclusive, and accessible tourism worldwide.