Umm Salal: HE Minister of Culture Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Hamad Al-Thani and HE Minister of Culture and Islamic Guidance of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Dr. Seyed Abbas Salehi, officially inaugurated the Iranian Cultural Week in the State of Qatar on Wednesday evening at the permanent Darb Al Saai venue in Umm Salal, as part of efforts to strengthen cultural cooperation between Qatar and Iran. According to Qatar News Agency, the opening ceremony was attended by Assistant Undersecretary for Cultural Affairs, Dr. Ghanem bin Mubarak Al Ali, HE Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the State of Qatar Dr. Ali Salehabadi, and several ambassadors accredited to the State of Qatar. In his opening speech, HE Iranian Culture Minister Dr. Seyed Abbas Salehi expressed his appreciation to the State of Qatar, its government, and its people for hosting the Iranian Cultural Week. He emphasized that the event serves as an opportunity to introduce Iran's culture and heritage, highlighting the country's history and civi lization. The Iranian Minister of Culture further stated that the establishment and development of broad cultural relations between the two countries serves as a model to follow, strengthening cooperation and solidarity. He added that holding cultural weeks promotes communication between cultural, literary, and artistic elites in both Iran and Qatar, and sends a message of peace, friendship, and solidarity. On his part, Director of the Culture and Arts Department at the Ministry of Culture, Abdulrahman Abdullah Al Dulaimi, stated that the Iranian Cultural Week is part of the ministry's annual program of cultural events with brotherly and friendly nations. The goal is to enhance cultural relations and introduce the cultures of other countries. He pointed out that the Iranian Cultural Week offers a cultural experience, showcasing the authenticity of Iranian arts through musical performances, art exhibitions, and traditional crafts that reflect Iran's heritage. Today's events featured performances, including a traditional Iranian music concert, a video introduction to Iran, a performance by Iranian musical bands, traditional henna ceremonies, and a film showcasing Iran's tourist landmarks. The Iranian Cultural Week, which continues until Friday, includes daily artistic and theatrical performances, in addition to exhibitions of visual arts and traditional crafts. It also features displays of works by artists in various artistic and creative fields, including music, Persian calligraphy, gilding, fashion and clothing, carpets, painting, embroidery, and numerous other handicrafts.