Iran expands tourism diplomacy with Greece, China, Nigeria at UN meeting in Spain
Iran used a United Nations Tourism Executive Council session in Toledo to expand its international tourism diplomacy, holding bilateral talks with Greece, China and Nigeria aimed at boosting cultural exchange, investment and joint promotion.
Tourism Minister Reza Salehi-Amiri met Greek Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni, with both sides agreeing to prepare a joint cooperation package covering tourism development, education, investment and cultural heritage.
Tehran also proposed launching a “philosophical tourism” initiative designed to connect scholars and intellectuals from Iran and Greece, drawing on what officials described as the two countries’ ancient civilizational traditions.
“Iran and Greece are among the world’s oldest and most influential civilizations,” Salehi-Amiri said, describing tourism diplomacy as a natural extension of long-standing cultural ties.
In a separate meeting with China’s Vice Minister of Tourism Gao Zheng, both sides called for tourism relations to better reflect the strategic depth of broader bilateral ties. The discussions focused on a joint action plan, expanded promotional activity and closer cooperation between travel agencies and private-sector operators.
Chinese officials said interest in Iranian culture was rising in China and welcomed deeper engagement as the two countries mark 55 years of diplomatic relations.
Salehi-Amiri also met Nigeria’s Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy Hannatu Musa Musawa, where the two sides agreed to expand cultural exchanges and strengthen cooperation between tourism sectors. Plans were discussed for joint exhibitions, tourism exchanges and greater involvement of private-sector operators in both countries.
Iranian officials described Africa as a strategic priority in foreign policy, with Nigeria identified as a key partner in West Africa. Musawa, according to Iranian statements, praised Iran’s civilizational heritage and expressed support for broader cultural and tourism engagement.
Separately, the minister said Iran’s participation in the Toledo meeting also aimed to present its position on regional developments, adding that several delegations expressed solidarity following his remarks at the session.
Iran also used the meetings to promote its tourism development strategy focused on coastal regions in the south of the country, including Makran, Hormozgan, Bushehr, Khuzestan and the Persian Gulf islands.
Salehi-Amiri highlighted plans to strengthen maritime and coastal tourism, including heritage sites such as the ancient port of Siraf, which is being prepared for UNESCO World Heritage consideration.
He said China’s outbound tourism market, estimated at more than 160 million travelers annually, represented a significant opportunity for Iran, adding that Tehran aims to secure a greater share of international arrivals through targeted cooperation and joint promotion campaigns.