Portuguese Language Week Ceremony held at ATU

Report by the Directorate for International Academic Cooperation–

Following the efforts made by Directorate for International Academic Cooperation and the Spanish Language Department at Allameh Tabataba'i University (ATU), the Brazilian Embassy in Tehran, and the Portuguese Embassy in Tehran, the opening ceremony of the first Portuguese Language Week in Iran took place at the Faculty of Persian Literature and Foreign Languages, ATU.

The event, which took place on 3 November 2024, was attended by Professor Shoja Ahmadvand, ATU President, and ambassadors and officials from the embassies of Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Cuba, Mexico, Nicaraguai, Paraguay, Portugal, and Spain.

In the beginning of this event, Dr Ahmadvand highlighted the role of language in building cross-cultural bridges and explored historical connections between Iranian and Portuguese-speaking cultures, emphasizing shared traditions in literature, music, architecture, culture, and other fields. He noted that Persian poetry, represented by figures like Hafez, Saadi, Ferdowsi, Nizami, and Rumi holds a similar reverence in Persian culture as celebrated Portuguese writers, such as Luis de Camões, Fernando Pessoa, José Saramago, and many other literary figures do in theirs. He added that Iranian and Portuguese art, particularly in traditional music and tilework, bear notable resemblances, underscoring a rich historical exchange.

Mr Carlos Costa Neves, Portugal's ambassador to Tehran, then recounted his efforts to initiate a Portuguese language program at the university, with substantial support from the Brazilian Embassy. He highlighted ongoing negotiations for a tripartite agreement that, once finalized, will further strengthen academic cooperation in Persian and Portuguese studies.

Finally, Mr Eduardo Ricardo Gradilione Neto, Brazil’s ambassador to Tehran, expressed excitement about the project’s progress. He referenced a 200-volume book presentation, from the former Brazilian vice-president, to ATU as a symbolic contribution to advancing Portuguese studies at this university. Ambassador Neto then emphasized the importance of mutual understanding and cultural exchange, envisioning the project as a foundation for lasting relations.

It was the first Portuguese Language Week taking place in Iran. The event also featured cultural exhibitions, including a photo exhibition, all intended to deepen connections between Iran and the Portuguese-speaking world. This is worth mentioning that it is the first time the Portuguese language is being offered at an Iranian university. ATU, as the only Iranian university specialising in the humanities and social sciences, is pleased to be the only Iranian university have this opportunity.