The following is the full text of the message of Leader of the Islamic Revolution His Eminence Ayatollah Sayyed Mojtaba Khamenei to the 2026 Hajj pilgrims

Iran and Sri Lanka explored new opportunities for expanding academic cooperation during a meeting between Iranian Cultural Counselor Ali Kebriai Zadeh and the President of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura. Medical sciences, humanities, research collaboration, and academic exchange programs were identified as key areas for future partnership

A commemorative ceremony marking the second anniversary of the martyrdom of Ayatollah Seyyed Ebrahim Raisi and Dr. Hossein Amir-Abdollahian was held in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The event brought together political, cultural, academic, and media figures who highlighted the enduring friendship and cooperation between Iran and Sri Lanka

A cultural and literary gathering was held in Colombo to commemorate Ferdowsi, Omar Khayyam, and Persian Language Day. The event highlighted their enduring contributions to Persian language, literature, philosophy, and the broader intellectual heritage of Iranian civilization

Academic and media experts from Sri Lanka and Iran discussed challenges related to perceptions of Iran, media representation, and opportunities for strengthening university cooperation. The meeting emphasized the importance of academic exchange, research collaboration, and broader access to educational resources on Iran.

Scientific and cultural consultations were held between the Cultural Counsellor of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Sri Lanka and the University of Kelaniya to expand academic, artistic, and Iranology cooperation. Both sides emphasized strengthening institutional ties and protecting educational and scientific institutions against threats and attacks

A seminar on “The Universality of Saadi’s Thought and Its Reinterpretation in the Contemporary Era” was held at the Cultural Office of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic, with scholars and literature enthusiasts in attendance. Ali Kebriaezadeh emphasized that Saadi’s human-centered ideas—such as solidarity, dignity, and social responsibility—remain highly relevant in the modern world. The session also included discussions and a .musical performance inspired by Saadi’s poetry

Iran Film Day was commemorated at the Cultural Office of the Iranian Embassy with the screening of The Sniper, highlighting themes of resistance, patriotism, and sacrifice. Speakers emphasized the historical resilience of the Iranian people, while the event was warmly received by Sri Lankan audiences

: Iran’s Cultural Attaché in Sri Lanka attended a special radio program titled “Saadi and Our World” at Sri Lanka National Radio on April 22, 2026. The program, held to mark Saadi Day, highlighted the life, works, and global significance of the Persian poet Saadi Shirazi. During the broadcast, Ali Kebriaei-Zadeh emphasized the enduring relevance of Saadi’s masterpieces, Golestan and Bustan, and their themes of ethics, justice, and human values. The event also underscored the role of cultural exchange in strengthening ties between nations