WANA (Oct 15) – Iran–Turkey Cultural Year and on the occasion of Hafez Commemoration Day, a joint performance by the National Orchestra of Iran and the Turkish Sufi Music Orchestra was held in Ankara. The event was attended by the Ministers of Culture of both countries, senior Turkish officials, members of parliament, ambassadors, resident diplomats, and art and culture enthusiasts.

 

According to the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Turkey, the Iranian segment of the program was performed by the Iranian Instruments Ensemble of the National Orchestra of Iran, affiliated with the Roudaki Foundation, under the direction of Pouria Shioafard and with vocals by Mojtaba Asgari. The performance featured compositions by prominent Iranian masters, accompanied by verses from the Divan of Hafez Shirazi, creating an atmosphere imbued with the spirit of Persian poetry and traditional music.

 

Hosted by the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the event aimed to promote authentic Iranian culture and art, strengthen cultural diplomacy, and deepen artistic and cultural ties between Iran and Turkey. Organizers noted that the poetry of Hafez and the melodies of Iranian national music beautifully reflect the depth and grace of Iranian artistic thought for an international audience.

Unveiling of the Joint Commemorative Stamp Honoring Hafez. Social media / WANA News Agency

Unveiling of the Joint Commemorative Stamp Honoring Hafez. Social media / WANA News Agency

At the opening ceremony, the Ministers of Culture of Iran and Turkey highlighted the shared cultural and historical heritage of the two nations and described Hafez Shirazi as a symbol of intercultural dialogue bridging East and West. They emphasized the vital role of poetry, music, and literature in fostering cultural understanding.

 

The ceremony also featured the unveiling of a joint commemorative stamp honoring Hafez, along with the presentation of commendation plaques to several distinguished Turkish scholars of Persian language and literature.

 

This cultural event marked a significant step toward enhancing civilizational dialogue and strengthening cultural relations between Iran and Turkey.