Book Diplomacy: A Lasting Bridge Between Iran and Afghanistan

DID Press: Iran’s cultural adviser in Afghanistan has described books and literary exchanges as a lasting tool for strengthening cultural dialogue and cooperation between Tehran and Kabul.

The cultural program “Friends of Books and Knowledge” was held at the Iran Culture House in Mazar-i-Sharif, bringing together Iran’s cultural adviser, library officials, cultural activists, school administrators and members of the Ferdowsi Public Library.

Seyed Ruhollah Hosseini, Iran’s cultural adviser in Afghanistan, said the two countries’ shared cultural and civilizational heritage provides a strong foundation for expanding cultural cooperation through books and literature.

He proposed strengthening libraries in Balkh through targeted donations and establishing Iranology and Afghanistan Studies sections in cultural centers and libraries.

Hosseini also suggested exchanging works by authors from both countries, organizing book-launch and literary criticism sessions, holding joint reading competitions, and supporting reading programs for children and young people.

He further called for the establishment of joint study circles among universities and academic and cultural institutions, saying such initiatives could help build a network of researchers and people interested in culture and knowledge in Iran and Afghanistan.