Ali-Akbar Salehi, head of the Iranology Foundation, says the goal of Iranology is not just producing articles and books, but creating a dynamic space for exchanging ideas and opening new avenues of cooperation.

Why it matters:

Iranology is a tool for cultural diplomacy and mutual understanding at a time when dialogue between such civilizations in the world, including Iran's, is increasingly important.



The big picture:

The International Iranology Conference brings together 50 scholars from 22 countries to explore Iran’s cultural, historical, and academic contributions. It emphasizes networking, problem-solving, and building lasting connections among researchers.
 

Iran’s International Iranology Summit opened in Tehran on Saturday.

 

What he's saying:

Salehi emphasized that if Iranology is properly understood, it becomes part of a larger effort to connect civilizations—not through power, but through knowledge, culture, and human experience. He described Iran as a land of unity and continuity, where centuries of history are reflected in art, literature, music, and architecture. This cultural legacy, he said, can inspire peace, coexistence, and global collaboration.



Key points:

  • The Iranology Foundation is supporting joint university chairs, Persian text translations, and field workshops for young researchers.
  • The conference is held in Tehran and Shiraz with the participation of scholars from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
  • Iran’s cultural heritage is presented as a model for dialogue and understanding across civilizations.

 

Go deeper:

The event is part of a broader effort to establish a permanent secretariat for global Iranologists. Alongside the main sessions, specialized meetings at Iranian universities cover topics such as tourism, language, technology, spiritual heritage, and Iranian civilization. The goal is to transform Iranology from an academic discipline into a living platform for intercultural exchange.

Tehran Launches International Iranology Summit With Scholars From 22 Countries

 

M.Majdi - seyed mohammad kazemi