India and Iran Collaborate to Boost Bilateral Tourism

India and Iran are set to sign a memorandum of understanding to enhance tourism cooperation between the two nations. Iran has waived visas for Indian tourists, resulting in a significant increase in visitors. The agreement will further promote mutual tourism, explore the cultural heritage, and introduce direct flights to boost connectivity.

India and Iran are on the brink of signing a crucial memorandum of understanding to deepen their tourism collaboration, Deputy of Tourism in Iran's Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts, Aliasghar Shalbafian, revealed. The MoU aims to leverage the historical and cultural ties between the two nations, facilitating mutual tourism growth.

In an interview at the Iran Tourism Roadshow, Shalbafian praised the progress made following fruitful discussions with Indian tourism ministry officials. Iran has already waived visas for Indian tourists, sparking a 39% rise in visitors from India. The MoU will focus on promoting tourism, cultural exchanges, and developing tourism products reflecting intangible cultural heritage.

Iranian authorities also plan to introduce more direct flights between various cities of both countries, enhancing travel convenience. Existing flights from Tehran to Delhi and Mumbai could be supplemented with new routes to Shiraz, Isfahan, and other cities. Shalbafian emphasized that tourism can strengthen people-to-people ties, despite regional political challenges.

(With inputs from agencies.)