ISLAMABAD, Sunday, July 20, 2025 (WNP): Deputy to the President of Iran on Social Affairs, Dr. Ali Rabiei, has said that the people of Iran will never forget Pakistan’s unwavering support during the recent Israeli aggression, vowing to further strengthen the role of the ECO Cultural Institute (ECI) in promoting regional unity through culture.

He made these remarks during a meeting with Dr. Saad S. Khan, President of the ECO Cultural Institute, who called on him in Tehran earlier on Sunday to discuss enhanced regional cultural cooperation under the framework of the ten-member Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO).

Dr. Rabiei, a senior Iranian statesman and prominent cultural figure, was appointed Deputy to President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian last year to spearhead Iran’s social and cultural policies. He praised Dr. Khan for his contributions in elevating ECI’s global outreach and expressed full support for the Institute’s mission as a regional counterpart to UNESCO.

Highlighting Tehran’s status as host to ECI—the only international cultural organization headquartered in Iran—Dr. Khan said this presents a unique opportunity for the country to lead soft diplomacy efforts and amplify its cultural influence across the region.

As Dr. Khan prepares to conclude his tenure in Tehran, Dr. Rabiei lauded his efforts in steering ECI through a period of growth and international engagement. He extended best wishes for his future endeavors and thanked him for his firm stance on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and Palestine.

The two sides agreed to align ECI’s cultural agenda with regional development goals, emphasizing the need for joint cultural festivals, cross-border educational exchanges, and collaborative social initiatives that address shared regional priorities.

Dr. Rabiei reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to supporting ECI’s work, underscoring the importance of using culture as a bridge for peace, unity, and cooperation in the face of growing regional challenges.