Tourism Plays Significant Role in Boosting Iran’s Economy

TEHRAN (Iran News) Mohseni Ejei highlighted the unparalleled contribution of cultural heritage and handicrafts to elevating Iran’s Islamic civilization. “We, as officials and servants of the system, need to listen more than we speak. Today, we must better understand our society, its capacities, talents, and innovations,” he said. He stressed that recognizing the challenges faced by all segments of society is essential for officials to fulfill their responsibilities effectively.

Addressing the significant role of Iranian women, Mohseni Ejei noted, “Women make up half of our society. Do we, as system officials, fully recognize their talents and capabilities?” He underscored their importance as a key and influential demographic in the country.

The Judiciary Chief also called for greater efforts to introduce Iran’s rich cultural and civilizational heritage—spanning thousands of years and encompassing over a million cultural and archaeological artifacts—to both the Iranian people and the global community. “We must protect and preserve our rich cultural heritage more diligently so that future generations take pride in our stewardship,” he added.

Mohseni Ejei identified the economy and people’s livelihoods as the nation’s top priority, asserting that tourism is a key industry capable of bolstering economic foundations and generating sustainable jobs. “We must leverage tourism’s potential to boost the country’s foreign exchange resources,” he said, while cautioning that this development should not come at the expense of Iran’s cultural and religious values or allow foreign cultural infiltration.

He further explained that a thriving tourism and handicraft sector could lead to sustainable employment, which in turn would help reduce social issues. “The prosperity of tourism and handicrafts can create lasting jobs, significantly contributing to alleviating social anomalies,” he remarked.

Turning to handicrafts, Mohseni Ejei described them as a blend of art, talent, knowledge, and human virtues, suggesting that the term “handicrafts” might undervalue their significance. “Perhaps we should choose a more exalted name for this art,” he proposed. Drawing from personal experience, he recalled weaving carpets with his sisters during childhood, noting how artisans, like engineers or mathematicians, perfect their craft with precision and creativity.

He emphasized the grassroots nature of the handicraft economy, stating, “We constantly stress that the economy must be people-driven—what could be more people-centric than handicrafts? It requires minimal investment, and most importantly, it strengthens family foundations.”

Mohseni Ejei praised the potential of the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts, suggesting it could be harnessed to better showcase Islamic Iran and counter “Iranophobia.” “As more tourists visit Iran, the negative propaganda of enemies and adversaries is neutralized,” he said.

He pledged the Judiciary’s support for the tourism and handicraft sectors, stating, “We are prepared to collaborate with relevant authorities to remove obstacles and address challenges facing these industries. We also stand ready to enhance efforts to protect our rich cultural and civilizational heritage.”

Highlighting the need to resolve issues faced by foreign tourists, Mohseni Ejei noted that visitors unfamiliar with Iran’s laws and norms might encounter legal difficulties. “We are willing to work with the Ministry to address these legal challenges,” he said, adding that initial steps should include familiarizing tourists with Iran’s regulations. He also committed to bolstering security measures for foreign visitors.

The Judiciary Chief urged stakeholders in the tourism and handicraft industries to appoint representatives for brainstorming sessions with judicial officials to tackle sector-specific problems collaboratively.

In closing, Mohseni Ejei reiterated that resolving Iran’s economic challenges is nearly impossible without private sector and public participation. “The Judiciary considers it a duty to assist the private sector, remove production barriers, and support a production leap,” he said, extending this commitment to those active in handicrafts and tourism.