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Iran, Armenia ink cinema cooperation deal
The memorandum aims to bolster film industry collaboration between the two countries through joint productions, technical exchanges and commercial distribution networks, IRNA reported.
Raed Faridzadeh, head of Cinema Organization of Iran, and David Banuchyan, his Armenian counterpart, signed the deal in the presence of Pezeshkian and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan at a ceremony in the Armenian capital.
The agreement encompasses several key areas including mutual film screenings and commercial distribution, reciprocal invitations to cinema festivals, and facilitated participation of filmmakers and industry professionals in bilateral projects.
Both nations committed to promoting joint productions spanning feature films, documentaries, shorts and animations focusing on their shared history, culture and traditions. The pact also covers technical knowledge exchange and student-teacher programs in cinema education.
Under the terms, filmmakers will gain easier access to shooting locations and studio facilities in both countries. The deal includes provisions for joint film weeks, copyright protection for cinematic works, and establishment of an Iranian Young Cinema Association office in Yerevan.
Industry insiders view the agreement as a "significant step" towards expanding Iran's regional cinema partnerships. Armenia's film sector, though smaller than Iran's established industry, has shown growing international recognition in recent years.
The signing formed part of a broader diplomatic push during Pezeshkian's visit, which saw multiple bilateral agreements inked between the two nations. Armenia's and Iran's foreign ministries also signed a memorandum on political consultations for 2025-2027.
Previous cooperation between the countries had been limited to a Statement of Mutual Understanding between Armenia's National Cinema Center and Iran's Farabi Cinema Foundation, making the comprehensive agreement a notable upgrade in bilateral film industry relations.