This significant cultural initiative—organized by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts of the Philippines in cooperation with the cultural sections of several foreign embassies—has been taking place from 12 to 30 April 2025 at the Intramuros Tourism Center in Manila. The official inauguration ceremony was held on Friday, 11 April, attended by Mr. Abolghasemi, Cultural Counselor of the Islamic Republic of Iran, who also held sideline discussions with cultural officials present. In his remarks, Mr. Abolghasemi expressed appreciation for the initiative, stating:“I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the National Commission for Culture and the Arts of the Philippines for organizing this meaningful event. I hope this unique opportunity allows visitors to gain deeper insight into the ancient literature and civilization of Iran. Through engagement with these books, readers can access the vast and vibrant world of Persian literature and attain a more profound understanding of Iran’s rich cultural heritage.”

He further emphasized that the Iranian civilization, with its millennia-long history, has offered to the world monumental literary works such as Ferdowsi’sShahnameh, Hafez’sDivan, and Rumi’sMasnavi-ye Ma’navi, all of which reflect the essence and depth of the human experience. He expressed optimism that such cultural engagements would contribute to enhanced cultural, social, and human relations between the two friendly nations.

On the sidelines of the event, Mr. Abolghasemi also met with Mr. Cesar Gilbert Adriano, Director of the National Library of the Philippines. During the meeting, he reaffirmed the commitment of the Cultural Section to facilitating the implementation of the provisions outlined in the existing library cooperation agreement. He highlighted areas of potential collaboration including the exchange of expertise and materials, joint training programs, workshops, exhibitions, academic symposia, and study visits in cooperation with the National Library of the Islamic Republic of Iran. He also expressed readiness, following the completion of the renovation project of the National Library of the Philippines, to support the re-equipment and reopening of the Iran Studies Room—an offer warmly welcomed by Mr. Adriano.