Tajikistan parliament speaker said that although political and economic cooperation play an important and basic role in developing cooperation among countries, it is only possible through expansion of cultural ties, IRNA reported.
Shukurjon Zuhurov made the remarks in a meeting with Iran's Minister of Culture and Islamic Guidance Seyed Mohammad Hosseini in Dushanbe on Friday afternoon.
He underlined necessity of expansion of cultural cooperation and added that when hearts get close to each other, confidence spreads and causes development of cooperation in other fields, too.
Zuhurov continued that holding Iran's cultural week in Tajikistan has been a desire for Tajik people, adding that Iranian artists have conquered Tajiks' hearts by their work.
He expressed pleasure that the eldest tradition of Tajik and Iranian history, Novruz festivity, has been internationally recognized by the United Nations and said that it is a matter of honor and happiness for every Tajik and Iranian.
The speaker said, 'I am honored to say that Iranian and Tajik people have a suitable share in creation of old civilization in the world and Iranian great scientist Saeed Nafisee had called Tajikistan as ancient homeland of Iranians.'
He reminded that Iran was among the first countries which recognized Tajikistan's independence and established diplomatic relations and more than 70 cooperation documents have been signed between the two countries so far.
Decision of presidents of Tajikistan, Iran and Afghanistan to construct railway with cooperation of China was an important decision as well as development of an electricity transfer line, he continued.
Zuhurov called Iran the most strategic partner for Tajikistan in the region and world and said that promotion of friendly ties with Iran will consolidate Tajikistan's stance in the world community.
He also referred to expanding parliamentary ties between the two countries and said that several visits were made by parliamentary delegations in the last year which had an effective role in exchanging experiences among parliament deputies of both countries and strengthened mutual cooperation.