International Book Diplomacy Meeting Echoing Iqbal

The first international book diplomacy meeting, titled “The Echo of Iqbal,” was held at Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, focusing on the cultural diplomacy of books in the Islamic world.

According to the Iran Book News Agency (IBNA), this meeting, organized by the Faculty of Persian Literature and Foreign Languages of Ferdowsi University of Mashhad in collaboration with the Islamic Culture and Relations Organization and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, brought together prominent cultural figures and academics.

Dr. Hossein Abbasi, the scientific secretary of the meeting, emphasized the importance of book diplomacy as a soft power tool. He stated, “Book diplomacy plays a crucial role in promoting cultural understanding and strengthening international relations through literature and shared intellectual heritage.”

The event highlighted the enduring influence of Muhammad Iqbal, the great poet and philosopher, whose works transcend geographical boundaries and resonate with universal themes. Speakers discussed how Iqbal’s ideas can foster dialogue and unity within the Islamic world and beyond.

Participants included scholars from various countries, presenting papers on the role of books in inter-cultural communication, the challenges of cultural exchange, and strategies for effective book diplomacy. The discussions underlined the potential of literary works to bridge divides and create common ground among nations.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the necessity of continued efforts in promoting book diplomacy to address contemporary global challenges and foster a more interconnected and understanding world.