Addressing the sixth gathering of Iran's cultural attachés themed 'The Cultural Diplomacy of the Islamic Republic,' the minister said the influence of Islamic Republic in the region and the world originates from Islamic ideology.
"Any attempts stemming from such ideology will certainly be influential in the world," he said.
The official underscored the necessity of eradicating superstitions unjustly attributed to pure Islamic thoughts and said, "Conflicts among different Muslim sects is only in the interest of enemies."
He described introduction of Iranian culture and initiating cultural exchanges with other nations that are both consistent with Islamic teachings and in agreement with present-day circumstances as the core responsibility of cultural officials.
The minister said, "We have never claimed that we are inattentive to contemporary circumstances. Yet we are sometimes subjected to accusations as such. In order to avoid such criticisms, we might behave in certain ways to appease others. And that is inappropriate."
Saffar-Harandi stated, "We ought to remain loyal to our noble beliefs. At the same time, we do not have to act as if we do not need to benefit from the experiences and achievements of other nations."
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