Envoy Emphasizes Role of Culture in Realization of Human Dignity

IQNA – Culture is central to the realization of human dignity and fundamental human rights, says the Iraqi cultural attaché in Iran.

Yasser Abdul Zahra Al-Hajjaj made the statements in an interview with IQNA in Mashhad. He is in the northeastern Iranian city to attend the 1^st International Conference of Human Dignity and Family Challenges in Contemporary World.

“The basis for promoting human dignity and related fundamental rights, as well as human rights in general, is culture,” he said. “As society advances towards cultural values, human dignity also reaches a desirable level. Thus, there is a meaningful connection between the two.”

“Human dignity is an intrinsic and fundamental truth, belonging to all humanity,” Abdul Zahra said, adding, “It encompasses a set of values and beliefs, and it will only be widely accepted when it is based on an educational culture. Without a cultural foundation and appropriate education, human dignity cannot find its rightful place among people, whether on a personal or institutional level.”

Iran-Iraq relations

Discussing the unique relationship between Iran and Iraq, Abdul Zahra highlighted the role of cultural bonds, especially religious and spiritual ones.

“Today, when we speak about relations between Iran and Iraq, we are talking about ties grounded in cultural aspects. If we focus on just one dimension of these cultural ties—such as religious and pilgrimage elements—it is clear that these two nations are moving in a harmonious and cohesive direction,” he noted.

Abdul Zahra emphasized the significance of the annual Arbaeen pilgrimage as a key cultural and social event, transcending its religious aspects. “Arbaeen, before being a religious phenomenon, is a cultural and social one. This dimension can support both nations in enhancing their relations,” he remarked. “In other words, the foundation of Iran-Iraq relations is cultural, and one of the strongest indicators of this cultural aspect is religion.”

He also urged the media to play an active role in presenting the cultural connections between the two nations. “Media is in the best position to showcase the cultural realities between our peoples,” Abdul Zahra added, underscoring the media’s potential to strengthen the cultural bridge between Iran and Iraq.

The three-day conference will wrap up today.

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