“Historical Calendar – The Importance of Expanding the Confederation’s Activities and Utilizing Sports Diplomacy in Promoting the Culture of Chivalry (Part Two)”
Memorandum of Understanding: The Islamic Culture and Relations Organization and the International Federation of Zurkhaneh Sports to Cooperate
A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between the Islamic Culture and Relations Organization (ICRO) and the International Federation of Zurkhaneh and Pahlevani Sports (IZSF) to establish a framework for cooperation between the two institutions.
The MoU was signed by Abdolreza Rashed, Acting Deputy for the Development of International Cultural Relations, on behalf of ICRO, and Amirreza Ayrom, Senior Advisor to the President for International Affairs and Member of the Executive Board of the Asian Confederation, on behalf of the IZSF. The agreement outlines a cooperative program between the organization and the federation.
During the signing ceremony, Rashed welcomed the initiative, emphasizing the importance of introducing Iran’s rich culture and civilization to other countries.
He also highlighted the significance of promoting Zurkhaneh sports as an ancient Iranian tradition and noted the growing international interest in Iranian cultural practices, including Zurkhaneh rituals and the art of Ta’zieh (traditional religious drama).
Ayrom, while outlining the capabilities and resources of the federation, expressed satisfaction with the signing of the cooperation document with ICRO. He voiced hope that this MoU would serve as the beginning of broad and fruitful collaborations aimed at introducing Iran’s Zurkhaneh and Pahlevani culture to the world.
As the primary body responsible for Iran’s international cultural affairs, the Islamic Culture and Relations Organization oversees the planning and implementation of the Iran–Turkey Cultural Year, making use of the collective capacities of all cultural institutions in the country. Under this MoU, the International Federation of Zurkhaneh and Pahlevani Sports will not only continue its ongoing cooperation with ICRO but also take part in and contribute to the events of the Iran–Turkey Cultural Year.
According to the joint declaration signed by the Presidents of Iran and Turkey, the current year (2025) has been designated as the Cultural Year of Iran and Turkey. Throughout the year, both countries will organize a series of cultural events in each other’s territories to further promote mutual understanding and showcase their cultural and civilizational heritage.
