Why it matters:
Iran's active participation in international academic platforms, such as this exhibition, showcases the country's strategic emphasis on scientific diplomacy. This approach aims to strengthen bilateral relations and enhance the global visibility of Iran's academic and research capabilities, particularly in cooperation with China as a key strategic partner.
What he's saying:
Iran's Deputy Minister of Science Saeed Habiba who headed the Iranian delegation, emphasized the importance of this event. "This exhibition has created a platform for universities worldwide to present their capacities and build academic partnerships," he said. Habiba also reported on his official meeting with the Deputy Minister of Education of China, where both sides agreed on expanding student and faculty exchanges and advancing scientific diplomacy.
Key points:
- Iranian experts emphasized Iran’s readiness to host Chinese students and researchers, offering Persian language and Islamic studies programs as part of cultural engagement.
- The discussions signaled an Iranian shift toward building a South- South academic axis, promoting solidarity among independent nations in science and education.
- Iran positioned itself as a provider of cutting-edge research in nanotechnology, medicine, and AI, fields highly attractive to international partners.
- The cultural diplomacy aspect of Iran’s presence included exhibitions and roundtables that aimed to present the Islamic-Iranian model of academic excellence rooted in both tradition and modernity.
Go deeper:
The Iranian delegation's participation aligns with Iran's policy of enhancing scientific cooperation as part of its diplomacy. With shared cultural and geopolitical visions, collaboration with China offers a sustainable way to strengthen ties and develop knowledge systems, addressing Western academic monopolies. This engagement reflects Tehran’s commitment to knowledge-based diplomacy, a key element of Iran’s 20-year vision plan.
ahmad shirzadian
