Algerian Envoy Stresses Expanding Cultural Ties With Iran

Tehran, Oct 23, IRNA - Culture is an important part of cooperation between Iran-Algeria as it is the preferred vehicle of the society to promote understanding between the peoples of both countries. Sofiane Mimouni, the Algerian ambassador to Tehran, made the above statement in an exclusive interview with 'Iran Daily', published Thursday. “In this respect, the two countries have organized regular exhibitions of their respective arts. A week of Iranian crafts was held in Algeria in 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2013. Tehran also hosted a week of Algerian handicrafts in February 2012,” Mimouni added. The envoy noted the Algerian Embassy in Tehran intends to present to the Iranian people a series of cultural programs and events including Algerian film festivals and art exhibitions throughout 2015. “These events will give the Iranians and art lovers a glimpse of Algerian arts and an idea of the rich heritage of Algeria in art and crafts. From carpets to ceramics, from silverware to traditional dress, from pottery to paintings, Algeria has indeed a tremendous variety of skills in producing items that are unmatched in the region.” The richness and the diversity of its production derive from the diverse and prestigious history of the country, Mimouni said. “Set at crossroad of civilizations and of continents, Algeria has been, throughout its history, a country of meetings and exchanges. It is not surprising that at present, local craftsmen produce works that combine the tradition of their ancestors, the Islamic values and their identity in the modern world. “This indicates that the cultural exchange program signed by the two countries is implemented and proves favorable to the development of people-to-people exchanges and also that Algerian-Iranian cooperation strengthens in a continuous, global and balanced manner to involve all aspects of bilateral relations, he noted./end