Secretary-General of the Iranian National Commission for UNESCO Meets Isfahan Governor and Deputy Governor for Political and Social Affairs on the Sidelines of the 15th Tourism Exhibition

At the meeting, held on 24 November 2025, with the aim of exploring avenues for developing scientific, cultural, heritage-related, and international cooperation between Isfahan Province and the Iranian National Commission for UNESCO, Dr. Fartousi congratulated the city of Kashan on its inscription on the UNESCO Creative Cities Network as a Creative City of Architecture. He described this achievement as an important step towards strengthening the country’s cultural diplomacy and a new opportunity to enhance the region’s cultural standing and creative potential. Referring to Kashan’s unique architectural heritage and historical identity, he characterized this international recognition as the starting point for a new chapter of joint cooperation and programs.

During the meeting, the Secretary-General of the Iranian National Commission for UNESCO also introduced the UNITWIN Network on Structural Restoration and Crisis Management of Architectural Heritage, hosted by the University of Isfahan in collaboration with 10 universities and two international organizations from 11 countries. He emphasized that Kashan’s inscription on the UNESCO Creative Cities Network coinciding with this scientific event reflects international recognition of Isfahan Province’s scientific, cultural, and heritage capacities.

Dr. Mehdi Jamalinejad, Governor of Isfahan Province, also expressed his appreciation for the efforts of the Iranian National Commission for UNESCO and emphasized the need to expand structured, long-term cooperation between the province and the Commission. He stated that Isfahan, with its unique cultural, scientific, and heritage capacities, is ready to develop joint initiatives in tourism, creative industries, and World Heritage management. He stressed that Kashan’s inscription on the UNESCO Creative Cities Network and the approval of the UNITWIN Network could mark the beginning of a new chapter in the province’s international engagement.

At the conclusion of the meeting, both sides expressed hope that joint projects and programs between the Iranian National Commission for UNESCO and Isfahan Province would be pursued with greater momentum and coordination.

As part of the continued official meetings in Isfahan, a meeting was held at the office of Dr. Ayoub Darvishi, Deputy Governor for Political and Social Affairs of Isfahan Province, to discuss mechanisms for joint cooperation with the United Nations and its affiliated agencies, particularly UNESCO. Representatives of the Department of Education, the General Directorate of Technical and Vocational Education, the General Directorate of Cultural Heritage, and the General Directorate of Environment attended the meeting.

During the meeting, participants discussed and exchanged views on opportunities for cooperation in education, culture, environmental protection, and skills development.