Nournews: Iqbal, though revered in Pakistan as the national poet, had deep linguistic and intellectual ties to Iran. Over 70% of his poetry is in Persian, and his philosophical outlook—shaped by Persian mysticism and thought—positions him as a unifying figure in the Islamic world beyond national borders.
Despite geopolitical challenges, Iran and Pakistan share a stable cultural foundation, with Iqbal as a central symbol. While viewed differently in each country, these perspectives are complementary and can foster mutual political and economic understanding.
Pezeshkian’s visit, which began with paying tribute to Iqbal, reflects Iran’s approach to cultural diplomacy in South Asia. Iqbal, because of his Persian works and national stature in Pakistan, is a powerful tool for this diplomacy. Cultural ties often endure longer than economic agreements, and initiatives such as joint cultural weeks, literary exchanges, and Persian language promotion can deepen bilateral relations.
In the face of rising extremism and identity conflicts in South and West Asia, turning to shared cultural figures like Iqbal offers more than nostalgia—it provides a living platform for unity. If leveraged properly through concrete cultural policy initiatives, Iqbal can become a dynamic asset for transforming neighborly ties into active and cooperative coexistence.
NOURNEWS