Is Iran Strengthening Tourism Ties in Southeast Asia Through with this new Roadshow?

Published on July 6, 2024

Iran concluded its East Asia tourism roadshow with a significant event in Jakarta, Indonesia, following previous stops in Vietnam and Malaysia. This initiative aims to boost tourism cooperation and attract more visitors between these countries and Iran.

Event Highlights

• Jakarta Event: Key officials and private sector leaders from Iran and Indonesia gathered for business meetings and discussions on future tourism agreements.
• Key Discussions: Iranian Deputy Tourism Minister Ali-Asghar Shalbafian met with Indonesian Deputy Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy Martini Mohamad Paham, emphasizing the importance of such events in strengthening bilateral relations.
• Tourism Offerings: Shalbafian highlighted Iran’s diverse tourism attractions, including religious, cultural, handicraft, culinary, and medical tourism, noting Iran’s reputation for high-tech medical treatments in the Middle East.

Agreements and Collaborations

• Direct Flights: Iranian Ambassador to Indonesia Mohammad Boroujerdi discussed progress in obtaining direct flight permits between Iran and Indonesia.
• Memorandum of Understanding: A memorandum of understanding was signed between the Head of the Iranian Tour Association, Mustafa Shafiei-Shakib, and the General Chairperson of the Central Executive Board of the Indonesian Tour and Travel Association (ASITA), Nunung Rusmiati.
• B2B Meetings: Travel agencies held B2B meetings to foster collaborations expected to increase tourist numbers in both countries.

Global Effects on Travelers

This roadshow is expected to have a positive impact on global tourism by:

• Enhanced Connectivity: Potential new direct flights between Iran and Indonesia.
• Increased Awareness: Promoting Iran’s diverse travel offerings to Southeast Asian markets.
• Strengthened Relations: Fostering stronger tourism bonds and cultural exchanges between Iran and Southeast Asian nations.

Previous Stops

• Vietnam: Event held in Hanoi.
• Malaysia: Event held in Kuala Lumpur.