Persian Gulf as Iran’s geo-civilizational core of peace, identity: Minister
Iran’s ministers of culture and heritage called the Persian Gulf a cornerstone of national identity and regional solidarity, urging deeper cultural ties, sustainable tourism, and peaceful coexistence across its shores.
Reza Salehi Amiri, Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts, described the Persian Gulf not simply as a body of water but as a “civilizational concept” deeply “woven into the fabric” of Iran’s history and development.
He said the Gulf’s value reaches beyond “economic and security equations,” rooted instead in ancient records, heritage, and widely accepted global narratives.
In a formal statement, Salehi Amiri framed the Persian Gulf as a platform for cultural diplomacy, regional convergence, and economic renewal. “Peaceful coexistence is not a dream but a geo-civilizational necessity,” he wrote, calling for expanded cooperation among Persian Gulf countries to strengthen tourism and dialogue.
Tourism, particularly with neighboring Persian Gulf states, was described as a powerful tool for “reproducing national power” and fostering cultural understanding. The minister stressed shared religious and historical links, saying they could help draw more regional travelers to southern Iran.
To boost this potential, he said the government is stepping up efforts to improve infrastructure, streamline visa processes, expand air routes, and strengthen partnerships with local communities and the private sector. Southern islands like Kish, Qeshm, Hormuz, Hengam, Abu Musa, and Hendurabi could become major destinations, he noted, “if managed under a unified ecological strategy.”
Abbas Salehi, Minister of Culture and Islamic Guidance, echoed those sentiments in a separate message, calling the Persian Gulf “a piece of Iran’s soul” and a name “stitched into the cultural memory and honor” of the nation. He praised Iranians for historically standing firm in defense of every inch of their land and waters.
However, official events planned by the ministry were scaled back due to a deadly explosion at Shahid Rajaei Port in Bandar Abbas. “The Persian Gulf mourns with us,” the minister said, offering condolences to the victims’ families and wishing recovery for the injured.
April 30 marks the anniversary of the 1622 victory by Safavid naval forces over the Portuguese at the Strait of Hormuz, an event that led to the naming of the day as Persian Gulf Day. Iran consistently defends the historical term “Persian Gulf” against alternative names it sees as politically motivated.
Officials emphasized the Persian Gulf’s continued role as a symbol of peace, dignity, and heritage. “It will continue to shine,” Salehi Amiri wrote, “as a symbol of peace, dignity, and lasting legacy.”