Vienna : Nowruz means ‘new day’ in Persian and is the most important festival of the year in Iran. It is also celebrated in a number of other countries across the Middle East, Central Asia, South Asia, the Balkans and East Africa, and dates back at least 3,000 years.
The holiday has changed over the thousands of years that it has been celebrated, and different regions have preserved or developed different traditions, as well as adding new ones. But wherever it is observed, it celebrates the original message of rebirth and renewal.
Nowruz, which translates to ‘new day’ in Persian, signals the onset of spring and the commencement of a new year. It is celebrated with a variety of customs, including special meals, family reunions, and communal celebrations. At the UN headquarters in Vienna, the celebration served as a representation of this significant festival, showcasing an assortment of cultural artifacts, traditional.
Pakistan participated in Nowruz Celebrations held at the UN_Vienna where the keynote address was delivered by His Excellency Ambassador Kamran Akhtar. He underscored that the arrival of spring brought a fresh start filled with joy, prosperity and togetherness.
The presence of delegates from various nations underscored the significance of the event as a medium for cultural exchange and diplomacy. By displaying their traditions and values of renewal and harmony, the participating countries illustrated the efficacy of cultural diplomacy in connecting disparate communities.
The event not only promoted unity among those present but also accentuated the importance of cultural heritage in advancing international cooperation and understanding.
Furthermore, the event encouraged intercultural dialogue, illustrating how traditional celebrations like Nowruz can act as effective instruments in international relations.
The observance underscored the importance of Nowruz in promoting global peace and unity, aligning with the overarching goals of the United Nations.