The President of Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences stated: “The Arbaeen pilgrimage is a clear manifestation of cultural diplomacy.”
According to the Public Relations Office of the International Arbaeen Narrative Festival, Dr. Alireza Zali, President of Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, said at the closing ceremony of the First International Arbaeen Narrative Festival, dedicated to students of the Islamic world: “We hope to establish a national and international secretariat for this festival in the future.”
The University President added: “Since the early years of Islam, Arbaeen and the number 40 have held great sanctity and significance. The central aspect of this day is the recitation of Ziyarat Arbaeen, which is considered one of the five key signs of being a Muslim.”
He emphasized: “Historical documents show that the Arbaeen pilgrimage has always existed, though it went into decline for many years. However, after the fall of Saddam, it has been held with greater magnificence every year.”
Dr. Zali further stated: “Today, the Arbaeen pilgrimage is not merely a spiritual ritual but a major global event. Cultural diplomacy is of great importance, and the Arbaeen pilgrimage represents a bright face of cultural diplomacy.”
He stressed: “The Arbaeen pilgrimage is the largest peaceful cultural march and human gathering in the world, unmatched by any other.”
He noted: “In the bitter atmosphere of Islamophobia, emphasizing the Arbaeen pilgrimage constitutes a powerful response to anti-Islam sentiment and Islamophobia.”
The University President also announced: “This year, the Iranian Medical Council will hold a Symposium on Health and Arbaeen in August.”
He added: “This year, a comprehensive program has been arranged at both national and university levels for the Arbaeen pilgrimage, with healthcare and medical teams participating in the event.”
Dr. Zali concluded: “It is predicted that this year’s Arbaeen pilgrimage will be held with extraordinary grandeur, and I have proposed that this festival be transformed into an active secretariat.”