TEHRAN — Looking at tourism and handicrafts is not merely economic, but rather it is considered as a tool of public and cultural diplomacy to strengthen the connection between nations and influence the relations between the governments, emphasized Atefeh Marvi, advisor to Minister of Cultural Heritage for women and family affairs.
According to IRIB, during a joint meeting between Marvi and Yazd Governor-General Mohammadreza Babaei that was held in Mehriz, Yazd province on Thursday, the state of Yazd’s tourism was reviewed and emphasis was placed on implementing support and incentive plans and strengthening the infrastructure to boost travel to the province.
Referring to the cultural diplomacy’s capacities in the field of tourism and handicrafts, Marvi told IRIB that at one point, the Japanese embassy was on the ‘red list’ of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, but with the follow-up efforts, the path of interaction was reopened; an experience that showed that even in the political arena, it is possible to solve the problems.
Marvi stated that Yazd province has always been a pioneer in the fields of education, cultural heritage and tourism, adding: “The projects currently being implemented are also the result of the coherent cooperation of the provincial and national management.”
She continued that despite economic problems, activities in the field of ecotourism, hotel restoration and infrastructure development have not stopped, although tourism at the national level has faced a serious decline and requires careful analysis and planning in times of crisis.
Also, Yazd governor-general referred to the extensive capacities of the province in the field of tourism and said: “Yazd has unique tourism capacities, but these capacities have not yet been fully exploited, and it is necessary for planning to simultaneously pay attention to preserving historical identity and economic development.”
Babaei added that the restoration of historical monuments must be carried out sustainably, and tourism infrastructure must be strengthened along with that.
“Developing transportation, providing sustainable financial resources and increasing the occupancy rate of accommodations are of particular importance.”
At the end of the meeting, it was emphasized to continue the cooperation between the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, the provincial administration and the private sector to implement supportive packages, strengthen the infrastructure and increase travel to Yazd province.
Also, Zamzam Eco-Lodge Unit was opened and put into operation in Baghdadabad, Mehriz county, with the presence of Marvi. The unit was opened in an area of 220 square meters, with private investment and with support of facilities from Note 18 of the Budget Law. This project, with five rooms and a capacity of 18 beds, will welcome tourists and lovers of nature and culture in the region.
The residence has been designed and implemented with the aim of providing ecotourism services, preserving the region’s native architecture and culture, and attracting domestic and foreign tourists.
Appreciating the private investor, Marvi considered the initiative an effective step towards sustainable tourism development, creating employment for the local community, especially women, and revitalizing the natural and cultural capacities of Mehriz.
Mehriz, as one of the historical and natural regions of Yazd province, is considered an attractive destination for nature-loving and culture-loving tourists, with attractions such as historical aqueducts, pistachio orchards, and the desert landscapes.
KD
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