Iran Unveils Ossetian Poet's Bust, Strengthening Cultural Ties with Russia

Report by Directorate for International Academic Cooperation, Allameh Tabataba'i University, Tehran—

Source: atu.ac.ir/fa

Translated into English by Rasoul Firouzi

Allameh Tabataba'i University (ATU) recently unveiled the bust of Kosta Khetagurov, the Ossetian national poet, at a ceremony attended by Iranian and Russian dignitaries, including Iran's Political Advisor to the President, the Acting President of ATU, the Rector of North Ossetian State University, and the Iranian Ambassador to Russia.

The Acting President of ATU emphasized that the unveiling signifies Iran's academic commitment to strengthening cultural ties with Ossetia. He highlighted that these initiatives, involving scientific and political bodies from both nations, showcase academic diplomacy's potential in developing broader cooperation. He expressed hope that planned efforts would further develop academic and cultural exchanges.

The Political Advisor to Iranian President then praised ATU and Vladikavkaz State University for their efforts in promoting cultural and academic relations, particularly regarding the Khetagurov bust. He underscored the North Caucasus' historical importance as a bridge between Iran and Russia, commending ATU's significant contributions to scientific and cultural collaboration. He encouraged visits to the North Caucasus to experience the hospitality and shared sentiments of the Ossetian people, noting the region's deep historical and cultural links with Iran. He also clarified the distinction between the stable North Caucasus and the more contentious South Caucasus, urging against confusion in analyses. He recalled past cultural projects during his ambassadorship, such as installing statues of Persian poets in Russia, stressing that Iran-Russia relations should extend beyond political and security spheres to leverage cultural and historical potential. He added that while the Soviet era weakened these ties, there is now an opportunity for their revival, suggesting that closer cultural and historical ties with regions like the North Caucasus should be further utilized.

The Iranian Ambassador to Russia, joining online, described Khetagurov as a multifaceted figure—a prominent poet, painter, philanthropist, and social activist. He praised the collaboration between ATU and Vladikavkaz University, recognizing them as pioneers in advancing scientific and cultural ties, crucial for both academic cooperation and people-to-people connections. 

He traced extensive historical public interaction between Iran and Russia, noting an active Iranian community in North Ossetia until 1920. He explained that after 1917, relations became largely state-controlled, and it is now vital to restore these natural bonds. The Ambassador then stressed the Caucasian people's affection and sense of kinship with Iranian culture, viewing cultural initiatives like Khetagurov's bust and academic exchanges as essential steps to rebuild these ties. He also applauded the successful "Iran and North Caucasus Cooperation" conference and invited its third edition to be held in the Caucasus in 2025.

The Rector of North Ossetian State University highlighted his university's role in strengthening cultural and scientific ties with Iran, mentioning the decade-long operation of the Center for Persian Culture and Language and the recent strategic cooperation agreement as significant steps. He referenced a 2016 memorandum leading to fruitful relations, citing achievements such as a 2017 conference, a 2018 program with ATU, and the installation of Ferdowsi's bust in 2019. He also noted the translation of "Alanian Melodies" by an ATU professor as a crucial step in bolstering friendship.

At the end of the ceremony, the Deputy for Development of Scientific and Cultural Cooperation at the Islamic Culture and Relations Organization expressed satisfaction with the project's completion, acknowledging the efforts of the Iranian Embassy, Cultural Attaché, and ATU. He viewed the unveiling as a prime instance of cultural diplomacy that strengthens emotional bonds. He emphasized that strengthening cultural, artistic, and scientific ties lays the groundwork for deeper and more stable bilateral cooperation in all areas. He also announced the Russian Cultural Week in Iran from 9 to 13 June 2025, featuring over 80 Russian artists.