Speaking at the International Iranology Conference in Tehran, Saleh Shariati said Iran has withstood more than 5,800 natural disasters throughout its history without losing cultural or civilizational continuity.

He cited drought as one of the country’s major environmental challenges and pointed to the development of qanats — ancient underground water channels recognized by UNESCO — as evidence of Iranian ingenuity. Some of these systems, he noted, date to the Achaemenid period.

The minister also highlighted Iran’s resilience in the face of foreign invasions, from the Mongol conquest to contemporary conflicts, saying the country has repeatedly turned adversity into cultural development.

Despite ongoing regional tensions, he said Iran continues to advance in science, arts and cultural production, adding that nearly 120,000 books were published nationwide last year.

The conference, attended by 50 scholars from 22 countries, aims to strengthen international Iranology research networks. It will conclude in Shiraz. According to organizers, more than 300 abstracts and articles were submitted, with 100 selected for publication. A volume of summaries will be released during the event, with full articles to be published afterward

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