Director-General opens symposium on Franco-Arab Dialogue, UNESCO Headquarters, 29 April 2002
The symposium was attended by numerous leading figures from the political, academic and industrial spheres, was organized by Mr Amin Esber, Chairperson of the Arab States Group, and Mr Mohamed El-Aswad, Permanent Delegate of Libya.
Ms Aziza Bennani, Chairperson of the Executive Board, Mr Ahmad Jalali, President of the General Conference, and a large number of Ambassadors, Permanent Delegates of the Arab countries to UNESCO, also took part in the meeting, the first in a series of symposia on Franco-Arab relations.
In his address, Mr Matsuura emphasized “the rich and manifold interactions shaped by history, geography and culture between the Arab world and France”. He invited the participants “to ponder the way in which we perceive others”, this being a particularly important question “at a time when we must do all we can to prevent the emergence and spread of new stereotypes and prejudices and reaffirm the equal dignity of all cultures and civilizations”.
To enhance and encourage this dialogue and ensure the preservation of cultural diversity, the Director-General stressed the role of cultural heritage, both tangible and intangible. “By learning to appreciate and develop our own heritage, we can learn to know and appreciate other cultures. This is an essential step towards ensuring fruitful dialogue and mutual understanding”, he said.
1st Educational Seminar on “Dialogue among Civilizations and Global Issues: Simulation of International Talks” / Aug 31 to Sept 3, 2002 / Tehran, Iran / Organized by College of International Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the UN University
To promote the world
concept of Dialogue among Civilizations through modern educational means,
College of International Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with
the cooperation of the UN University, intends to hold the first
educational seminar on “Dialogue among Civilizations and Global Issues:
Simulation of International Talks” from Aug 31 to Sept 3, 2002.
The seminar will revolve on the four educational pivots of:
Experts and academics interested in attending the seminar and the sideline committees are required to send in brief accounts of their academic and scientific background (in English), along with a copy of their last university degree, through registered mail or e-mail to the secretariat of the seminar no later than August 1st, 2002.
Applicants should hold academic degrees on one of the above subjects, and be in full command of English. Holders of higher degrees will enjoy top priority.
Attendees who pass the course successfully will be granted a Certificate of Attendance by the college of International Affairs and UN University.
The secretariat of the seminar also announced that it will introduce and publish briefs of research materials and theses pertinent to Dialogue among Civilizations in the bulletin of the seminar.
Contact information:
Address: Secretariat of
the seminar: Dialogue among Civilizations and World Issues
College of International Affairs
12 Mina Alley, Shahid Bahonar St., Tehran
Tel: 280 2650-1, ext. 41
Fax: 280 2742
E-mail: DaC@sir.ac.ir Http://www.sir.ac.ir
4th Seminar of Urban Development and Dialogue among Civilizations (side event: Round Table on "Architecture & Urban Development: Portrayal of the Culture of a Society") / July 18, 2002 / Mashhad, Iran / Organized by ICDAC, Iran's Association of Urban Development Engineers and Mashhad Municipality
ICDAC Lecturers
Dr. Mostafa Behzadfar: " Urban Architecture in the Interaction of Culture and Technology"
Dr. Mehrdad Navabakhsh: "Trend of Urbanity in Cultural Homogenization of Human Societies"
Dr. Naser Barakpoor: "Unique Place of Mashhad in the Developing the Ambiance of Dialogue among Civilizations"
Roundtable Participants
Mr. KavehBAzrafkan, Ms. Atoosa Modiri, Ms. Ghazal Karamati, Mr. Sepideh Yaghmayee, Ms. Lobat Khosravi, Mr. Amin Yarzadeh
Seminar
on “Dialogue among Civilizations and the Nimrooz Civilization’s
Domain” /June 10-11, 2002 / Zabol, Iran / Organized by ICDAC and the
University of Zabol
Report - The seminar on “Dialogue among
Civilizations and the Nimrooz Civilization’s Dominion” was held in the
Zabol University on June 10-11, by the cooperative efforts of Zabol
University’s students and the International Centre for Dialogue Among
Civilizations (ICDAC).
The main theme of the seminar, which was attended by students
and professors of the University of Zabol, ICDAC officials,
Afghanistan’s cultural attaché and several cultural and scientific
figures of Afghanistan, was focused on “Afghanistan”.
At the seminar, the Afghan cultural attaché Mr. Panjshiri
delivered a lecture on the history of Afghanistan, referring to Iran as a
friend as well as a neighboring country.
He hailed Iranian people for their humanitarian contributions
during the Afghanistan crisis under the rule of Taliban, and also after
the September 11th events and the consequent US attacks against
this country.
Referring to the rich culture of Iran and Afghanistan,
Panjshiri said that the peoples of the two nations enjoy a solid
understanding as a result of their many commonalities.
The Second Secretary of the Embassy of Afghanistan
Ehsan-al-Hagh Ehsan then spoke about the cultural transformations in
Afghanistan after the election of Hamed Karzai, followed by Dr. Mohammad
Akram Azimi’s speech on the influence of the western culture on the
ethnic culture of Afghanistan.
Afghan political authority Mir Hamed Hussein Mehri then gave
an account of the history of Loya Jirga in this country, and spoke about
the recent Loya Jirga, which was held June 11-16 this year to decide on
Afghanistan’s interim government.
Dr. Mohammad Vahid Binesh then talked about Democracy in
Afghanistan, followed by Professor Koohkan of the University of Zabol, who
delivered his speech on the trend of dialogue among civilizations from the
beginning to the present time.
Secretary of the ICDAC’s History of Civilizations Group
Alireza Tarafdari then gave a lecture on the History and Geography of
Afghanistan. ICDAC’s Director of Publications and Scientific Board’s
Secretary Dr. Mohammad Taghi Ghezelsofla and the Board member Mr.
Golmohammadi were also among the lecturers.
At the closing ceremony, Secretary of Seminar Mr. Khalili
appreciated the efforts of the organizers of the event, expressing hopes
that the seminar would repeat every year in a more organized manner.
Also President of the University Dr. Dehmardeh in a separate
gathering with the organizers and a number of guests including members of
ICDAC and Embassy of Afghanistan announced an agreement to admit Afghan
students to the University of Zabol. He said he was hopeful that such
cultural attempts would help promote dialogue and understanding between
the two nations.
Referring to the shortcomings of the Sistan & Baluchestan
province, Dr. Dehmardeh appreciated the efforts of the students of the
University of Zabol in organizing the seminar.
Among the sideline programs of the seminar were poetry
reading (poems of great poets of Afghanistan Abd-ol-Karim Tamana and
Seyyed Noor Farokh Mojab), praising Dialogue among Civilizations by
Alireza Majlesi (student of the University of Zabol), Pipe and Daf music
programs, and sword dance by a number of Zaboli performers.
“Afghanistan” was the main theme of the seminar as Sistan & Baluchestan is Afghanistan’s neighboring province, and Nimrooz civilization’s dominion had covered parts of Afghanistan and the Sistan & Baluchestan province.
International seminar on “Centre and Periphery” / May 1-2, 2002 / Isfahan / Organized by ICDAC’s department of philosophy and “Farzan rooz” publication
Isfahan was host to some foreign and domestic thinkers and experts on May first and second for a seminar on “Centre and Periphery”, aiming to prepare the groundwork for theoretical debates on past, present and future relations between the peripheral societies of the “Centre” which are basically defined as developed western countries.
Participants examined all angles of this issue from a philosophical, political and social standpoint through delivering lectures and holding theoretical debates.
Addressing the opening ceremony of the seminar, Dr Ataollah Mohajerani noted that like human beings, civilization has birth and death and stated:” It is through the enhancement, collapse and interaction of civilizations that human life blooms and civilizational heritage of humanity augments.”
Gathering on Dialogue among Civilizations: Germany and Iran / Bonn museum / Organized by ICDAC
“Culture of Dialogue” and “Dialogue among Cultures” as well as presenting West and East’s views was discussed on the first day of the gathering.
“Both parties to dialogue are of the same level in discovering the truth and accepting this equality leads to the success of dialogue, for 'talking' entails 'listening'”, Advisor to the President and head of the “International Centre for Dialogue Among Civilizations”, Seyyed Ataollah Mohajerani said in his lecture.
“For Dialogue among Cultures to succeed, parties to the dialogue need to accept one another and shall not look for each other’s negative background”, he added.
“In ‘Dialogue among Cultures’ one cannot rely on a predetermined outcome and we need to acknowledge the equality of the two parties to the dialogue”, Dr. Mohajerani said.
Referring to the history of the genesis of dialogue in ancient Greece he said:” ‘Tolerance’ is also a prerequisite to Dialogue among Cultures.”
“’Tolerance’ means ‘joint cooperation’ and it enhances dialogue among cultures”, he said, rejecting ‘negative Forbearance’ to be taken as the meaning for ’Tolerance’.
“Dialogue among Cultures is a part of global policy. Indubitably, parties to the dialogue need to be identified, for cultures are not able to talk with one another. But people in Islamic and Western countries are witnesses to problems of cultural origins”, head of Deutsche Orient-Institute (Dr. U. Steinbach) said.
“Dialogue’s objective is to attain peace among people and nations. The issue of peace enjoys a cultural dimension. When someone like Berlusconi talks of the superiority of European culture over the Islamic culture, apparently he has forgotten the fact that the greatest tragedies and crimes against humanity during the last decades have taken place in Europe. The question we shall ask ourselves is whether we westerners really want dialogue,” he added.
Emphasizing the importance of honest self-disclosure of parties to the dialogue, head of Deutsche Orient-Institute noted:” Without politics and change of politics and specially without development, dialogue is a non-starter.”
“Though we are present and ready, the other party to dialogue talks 'about us' instead of talking 'to us' and defines and interprets our objectives, no wonder the result of doing so stands against our nature”, Iran’s ambassador to Germany told the gathering.
Tehran University’s professor, Hojjatolislam Mojtahed Shabestari and professor Koop Hanover presented their views on dialogue among religions at the gathering.
On the last 2 days of the gathering issues of scientific and economic cooperation were discussed. Participants unanimously were of the conviction that it is only through persistence and continuation that dialogue can yield results.
Habermas
delievers a lecture / May 14th, 2002 / Tehran
University / Organized by ICDAC
“Jurgen Habermas”, one of the most
prominent contemporary philosophers, arrived in Tehran on Saturday at the
invitation of the “International Centre for Dialogue Among
Civilizations”. He delivered a lecture on the role and concept of
“religious tolerance in western societies” at the Iranian Association
of Knowledge and Philosphy.
Defining “religious tolerance” Habermas said:” As long as we show indifference towards the perceptions and positions of others or magnify them, by no means will we need tolerance”.
“Intolerance should not mistakenly be taken as equal to exertion of force and violation of other’s rights”, he further added.
“Vis-à-vis dissenters, it is only after setting aside all concessions that the issue of ‘tolerance’ can be brought up”, he stressed.
“The fundamental right of freedom is not something based on benevolence and expediency, courtesy of the mercy of governments, but has roots in the mutual recognition of the followers of different religions and beliefs”, he noted.
“Today, realization of religious tolerance has become a blueprint for a thought based on the nobility of cultural pluralism in its true sense, meaning: ‘coexistence of different cultures with equal rights in the framework of a single political society”, the prominent philosopher emphasized.
The Exhibition of Views: A journey to architectural culture of the nations, architects on a 37-day tour of 10 European countries/ May 18 - 23, 2002 / Azadi Culture House, North entrance, Azadi tower's ground floor, Azadi square, Tehran, Iran / Organized by ICDAC's "Architecture and Urban planning research group" in collaboration with Tehran University's society of architectures engineers, Choghazanbil's company of consultant engineers and cultural section of embassies of: Bulgaria, Turkey, Romania. Hungary, Austria, Germany, France, Spain, Greece, Italy
Concurrent with "Sketch program" on the following subjects:
Living with the culture of the nations' architecture
Planning sites for dialogue in cities
Opening ceremony: May 18, 2002, 5 pm
Open to the public: May 18-23, 9 am to 12 pm, 2pm to 6 pm
International Seminar on Iran-Austria Architecture & Urban Planning Exchanges / February 24-27, 2002 / Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran / Organized by ICDAC, Shahid Beheshti University, Vienna University of Technology, and Institute of X-Change Austria-Iran
Inauguration speakers
Lecturers
Sunday 24, February 2002
Monday 25, February 2002
Open Discussion (16:45)
Excerpts
Contrary
to the modern architecture and urban planning of the past 50 years, which
has been realized in the development of old cities or the building of new
ones -regardless of the environmental situation and native architectural
identity, the old architecture and urban planning was in perfect harmony
with the natural and environmental situation and was indeed a
representation of the particular locational identity.
Here
we will discuss the similarities and differences between the old
architecture in the different regions of the country, and the regional
solutions that have been applied to make the living environments more
comfortable.
The
present article, contrary to most of the popular discourses that discuss
the commonalities of two cultures, focuses on the differences, and as such
attempts to find a solution for mutual understanding, respect and
cooperation, and aims to resolve the architecture and urban planning
problems and obstacles.
The
writer, familiar with the Westerners’ way of thinking as a result of
forty years of study and living in Germany for more than 20 years,
attempts to pinpoint cases of scientific misunderstandings and to find the
roots for some of the reasons behind them, in hope to provide a better
ground for understanding the current daily events and to make a mutual
attempt to introduce the two cultures, specifically to the students of
architecture and urban planning of the two countries.
Austrian
architecture as a medium of dialogue with other countries, in the transfer
to the 20th and 21th centuries
Dr. Mansoor Falamaki
This article focuses on the following key issues that have not yet been presented in a documented way.
The
architectural cultures of Iran and Austria have not been directly related
to each other, and so we cannot discuss the counter-effects and cultural,
scientific exchanges of the two countries in this field, but two issues
should be mentioned here: First, innovative architecture or any
architecture with a new cultural angle, regardless of its place of origin,
will soon travel to other corners of the world as well, and gradually
gains an international identity. That is one way to reach a common ground
for the unity of thoughts, methods and experiences in the architecture of
the two countries.
And
second, the great Austrian architects of the late 19th and
early 20th centuries have put forth innovative theories and
experiences, and in doing so have influenced the Modern Architectural
Movement and the associated organizations and schools, which has in turn
contributed to the formation of global architectural outlooks.
What
I learned from Austrian architectural culture
Dr. Mohammad Hariri
First Conference of Researches on Persian Language and Literature / February 3-4, 2002 / Tarbiat-e Modares University, Tehran, Iran / Organized by Scientific Association of Persian Language and Literature, Academy of Persian Language and Literature, Tarbiat-e Modares University, Islamic Culture and Communication Organization, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, ICDAC and Channel 4 of IRIB
Place: Shahid Motahari Hall, Tarbiat-e Modares University, Tehran
Topics of the conference:
For more information contact the Secretariat of the conference:
Address: Tehran, P.O. Box
14115/345
Tel:
9821 630231
Fax: 9821 800
90 56
Email: farsiran@modares.ac.ir
First Culture and Civilization Festival of Persian Gulf Coast Dwellers,to
be held On the occasion of International Year and World Cultural Heritage
Year / February 12-March 3, 2002 / Qeshm, Iran
The first Culture and Civilization Festival of Persian Gulf Coast Dwellers will be held from February 21 to March 3, 2002 in beautiful historical port of loft (in Qeshm island) by Qeshm Free Zone Organization in collaboration with Islamic Revolution Housing Foundation, University of Science and Technology, Cultural Heritage Organization, and Iran Touring and Tourism Organization simultaneous with International Year of Cultural Heritage and International Year of Ecotourism (2002).
The
objectives for holding the Festival include an acquaintance with cultural
characteristics (cultural heritage, handicrafts, rites and rituals, etc.),
ecosystem features of Qeshm island (Hara marine forest, nearby islands,
diversified biota, salt caves, etc.), social issues (population and its
geographical distribution, public participation, enlightment, etc.), and
finally promotion of cultural tours and ecotourism in Qeshm as well as an
acquaintance with experiences gained and wise positive methods adopted for
promotion of sustainable human development by other countries.
The
Festival Secretariat has invited all countries having coastal territories
and islands to attend the Festival. Thus, the Festival would be enriched
with an illustration of similar aspects common among coastline dwellers
world over in culture and arts. Booths (12 to 20 sq m in area) have been
provided for every participating country to exhibit samples of their
handicrafts, clothing, etc. together with photographs and posters as well
as video films.
Booths
would be arranged in the traditional atmosphere of the village to be
supplied to participating countries free of charge. Participants would
receive provisioned discounts up to 20 percent for accommodation
facilities and their transportation to Festival venue-located 60 km off
the Qeshm city – would also be free of charge.
Art
content of the Festival would be allocated to traditional music of Qeshm
and Iranian coastal provinces, played with local musical instruments and
some theatrical programs. Magnificent sunset during the ten nights of the
Festival accompanied by immediate illumination of wind catchers, Naderi
Castle, water reservoir, water wells, dome and minaret and several
launches at the coast would mark the beginning of Festival Programs every
evening. Venue of the concert is near the ancient water reservoir of the
Loft at the foot of a hill over the slopes of which the guests would be
accommodated.
About Culture and Civilization Festival of Persian Gulf Coast Dwellers
Historical
port of Loft located towards the middle of the extended body of Qeshm
(northern coast) would be the venue of a memorable celebration entitled
“Culture and Civilizations Festival of Persian Gulf Coast Dwellers” to
be held from February 21 to March 3, 2002.
The
idea of holding such a festival was inspired a few years ago when whispers
about “Dialogue among Civilizations” were just being heard here and
there. As the project of Dialogue among Civilizations took larger shapes
and turned in to an interesting global issue with such dimensions that the
year 2001 was called the Year of Dialogue among Civilizations, our
country- itself the exponent of this peaceful idea- embarked upon a series
of activities with varying dimensions. The most extensive activities of
these rounds were provincial festivals held in collaboration with Iran
Touring and Tourism Organization.
Gathering on Dialogue among Civilizations/
27 February 2002 / Khoozestan, Iran / organized by ICDAC, Iranian
Sociology Association, Shahid Chamran University and Bureau of culture and
Islamic guidance
Main subjects:
The articles should be submitted not later than January
9, 2002. Participants will be informed of the acceptance of their articles
by January 30, 2002.
Secretariat: Shahid Chamran University, Faculty of Economy
and Social sciences
Telephone: 3337975
Gathering
on the place of Dialogue of Cultures among the society’s different
strata
/ Mazandaran University / 28 February, 2002
University
of Mazandaran’s faculty of human and social sciences, International
Centre for Dialogue among Civilizations and the Iranian Sociology
Association are to hold a gathering on the place of Dialogue of Cultures
among the society’s different strata (Mazandaran province). All
scholars, researchers and those interested are called on to submit their
papers and participate in the gathering.
Main
subjects:
Excerpts
of the articles should be submitted not later than January 20, 2002.
Results of reviewing the excerpts will be announced on January 30, 2002.
Deadline for submitting the original copy of the articles is February 14,
2002. Participants will be informed of the acceptance of their articles by
February 24, 2002.
Accepted
articles will be published in a collection and
participants will be rewarded.
Secretariat:
Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, University of Mazandaran, Shahid
Beheshti Street, Babolsar
Telephone:
011252-42200
Fax:
011252-42500
E-mail:
ci-dialogue@yahoo.com
Third
International Congress of Urbanism and Architecture Students / Oct.
30-Nov. 1 / Tabriz, Iran / Organized by ICDAC and the Islamic Azad
University of Tabriz
Review by Clare Melhuish
The Architect’s Journal, November 8,
Architectural
Space and Awareness in Iran
The prospect of traveling to Iran in the midst of the current international turmoil obviously lost its appeal to large numbers of foreign participants expected to attend the Third International Congress of Urbanism and Architecture Students last week in Tabriz.
The all-student organization, which had been working tirelessly for a truly international conference, said the number of foreign representatives had dropped from about 100 to 25, many from neighbouring country of Azerbaijan.
But, by contrast, the congress on the theme of “architectural space” – and broadly paralleling the British Winter Schools – attracted a record 3,000 architecture students from universities all over the country.
The event, which featured a display of student work at its core, and an extensive range of lectures and discussion panels, filled up to five halls of the city’s exhibition centre.
The International Centre for Dialogue Among Civilizations in Tehran was closely involved in the event and, indeed, its president declared Islam the ‘religion of dialogue among civilizations’. President Khatami of Iran has underlined the importance of tourism in promoting such dialogue, and the government has recently commissioned the design of a total of 16 Iranian embassies around the world by 16 Tehran-based architects.
This background made it an exciting time to witness the evident motivation of architecture students in the country, and their eagerness to engage with current architectural theory and debate in a way, which seems to be markedly different from the general outlook of the student body in Britain.
But it also comes as a surprise to the
western visitor to witness a still-thriving interest within architecture
schools in Post-Modernism and Deconstructivism. The latter was exhibited
in a particularly expressionistic form in the student work, and a certain
preoccupation with establishing a ‘correct formula’ for design, to be
delivered through the teaching system, which contrasts with the British
emphasis on encouraging diverse ways of thinking.
This was particularly evident in the response of the audience to presentations by three of the foreign delegates who did attend – from Oxford Brooks and UNL Universities.
The presentations were greeted with avid enthusiasm, but a certain lack of comprehension as to the distinction between a concept of ‘social architecture’ and ‘social engineering’ in contemporary architecture.
Nasser Golzari, Tourange Khansari and
Sandra Dineke, and Clare Melhuish presented papers on architectural
education and theory at the congress in Tabriz.
Universal Exposition of
Dialogue among Civilizations / Sep 27-Oct 01, 2001 / Isfahan, Iran /
Organized by the International Exhibition Co., Isfahan Province
Following the proposal made by the President of Islamic
Republic of Iran, the year 2001 has been designated as the Year of
Dialogue among Civilizations by the United Nations, and as the Year of
Visiting Iran by the World Tourism Organization. In this line, and
concurrently with the International Seminar of Tourism and Dialogue among
Civilizations, Universal Exposition of Dialogue among Civilization will be
held by the International Exhibition Co., Isfahan Province, with the help
and cooperation of the International Centre for Dialogue Among
Civilizations and a number of ministries and organizations. The Exposition
will be concentrated on the three basic axes of Tourism, Music, and
Handicrafts.
All organizations, centres, institutes, unions, offices and
companies related to the Handicrafts, Tourism and Hotel Industry, travel
agencies, and producers of cultural products are invited to attend and
actively participate in this distinctive national event.
Contact info:
Tel: 763820
Fax: 764012
E-mail: jorjani@dpimail.net &
adiyat_pub@yahoo.com
A
large number of university students, researchers and writers from
different countries participated in a one-day conference on Dialogue Among
Civilizations, which was held on Saturday by the Center for International
Studies at Cambridge University in Britain. The conference was cosponsored
by London-based Al-Khoei Foundation.
The managing director of the center praised the initiative proposed by the
Iranian President and approved by the United Nations, which designated the
year 2001 as the Year of Dialogue Among Civilizations.
International seminar “Modernity and its Impact on the Culture of Iranian Architecture and Urban Planning” / November 3, 2001 / Tehran, Iran / Organized by ICDAC
Architecture
and Urban Planning Group of the International Centre for Dialogue among
Civilizations intends to hold a seminar entitled “Modernity and its
Impact on the Culture of Iranian Architecture and Urban Planning “ on
November 3, 2001.
GOAL
The
seminar focuses on the recognition of similarities and differences as well
as the exchanges in the field of Architecture and Urban Planning, and so
attempts to pave the ground for Dialogue among Civilizations in this
field. The discussions will concern studies on the ways of establishing
dialogue, attributes and distinctions of each of the civilizations
involved in dialogue, the journey of these elements and their effects and
transformation in other cultural areas, with the aim to find common
grounds for dialogue and initiation of dialogue. This is a way in which
the objective of this seminar – Dialogue among Iranian and World
Architecture and Urban Planning – may be achieved.
DIALOGUE
Human
development in the course of history has been made possible through the
interaction and exchange of cultures and civilizations. The geographical
situation of Iran has turned this country into a bridge between East and
West. Iran has been a connecting point for cultures, where achievements
were exchanged. It received, added to what was received, and handed it
over to the world again.
Architecture
and urban planning has been a ground for dialogue among civilizations.
Modernity and its impact on architecture and urban planning is a
reflection of journeys of the spatial shapes of architecture and urban
planning, and exchange of different cultures and civilizations of the
world today. The study of this development process in Iran’s
architecture and urban planning, and the reasons for the inequality of
active, creative attributes taken by the Iranian modern architecture and
those of the world architecture – who has forgotten the Iranian
ontological basic beliefs – is a case of Dialogue among Civilizations,
looking for a way to build a bridge between the modern architecture and
urban planning of Iran and the world in the 21st century.
General
topics of the seminar are:
Contextual structure of dialogue among Iran and world architecture and urban planning today
Acts and counteracts of Modernism with regard to Iran’s new architecture
Acts and counteracts of Modernism with regard to Iran’s new urban planning
The reasons for the inequity in the amount of given and taken active, creative attributes by the new architecture of Iran and the World
Solutions for making an active, creative relation between Iran and world architecture and urban planning
Merging the architecture and urban planning future horizons of Iran and the world
Dialogue among civilizations, a bridge between the new architecture and urban planning of Iran and the world in the 21st century
Culture of Iran, modernity and globalization of architecture
New ideals of architecture in Iran today, in relation with scientific exchanges of the world
Perpetual principles of Iranian architecture in exchange with modern architecture movement
In search for patterns and identity of the contemporary Iranian architecture in today’s trend of world exchanges
Reasons for the loss of self-integrity of the contemporary Iranian architecture confronted with the western architecture
Concept of development and spring of architecture and urban planning in the process of modernity
Original integrity and maintaining the original ideals of Iranian architecture and urban planning, along with the necessity of exchange and dialogue of civilizations.
Abstracts
should be sent before September 6, 2001. Evaluation results will be
announced at September 22, and full texts of the selected papers should be
sent before October 22, 2001 to:
Architecture
and Urban Development Group
International Centre for Dialogue Among Civilizations
91 Lavassani St., Tehran, Iran
Tel: (+9821) 221 1210
Fax: (+9821) 221 1211
International seminar “Exchanges of the Culture of Iranian Architecture and Urban Planning from a Technological Point of View / November 4, 2001 / Tehran, Iran / Organized by ICDAC
Architecture and Urban
Planning Group of the International Centre for Dialogue among
Civilizations intends to hold a seminar entitled “Exchanges of the
Culture of Iranian Architecture and Urban Planning from a technological
point of view “ on November 4, 2001.
GOAL
The seminar focuses on the recognition of similarities and differences
as well as the exchanges in the field of Architecture and Urban Planning,
and so attempts to pave the ground for Dialogue among Civilizations in
this field. The discussions will concern studies on the ways of
establishing dialogue, attributes and distinctions of each of the
civilizations involved in dialogue, the journey of these elements and
their effects and transformation in other cultural areas, with the aim to
find common grounds for dialogue and initiation of dialogue. This is a way
in which the objective of this seminar – Dialogue among Iranian and
World Architecture and Urban Planning – may be achieved.
DIALOGUE
Human development in
the course of history has been made possible through the interaction and
exchange of cultures and civilizations. The geographical situation of Iran
has turned this country into a bridge between East and West. Iran has been
a connecting point for cultures, where achievements were exchanged. It
received, added to what was received, and handed it over to the world
again.
Technology has been
the ground for the development and maturity of architecture and urban
planning. Since the ancient times, it has been transmitted between the
East and West by kings, wars, and migratory moves. In the 20th
century this transmission has accelerated in a one-way flow from the
industrial countries towards the developing countries.
Studying the science
and technology in the structure of architecture and urban planning of each
country, observing what it receives and what it has or has had can be a
start for a self build-up, and establishment of a logical relation between
different civilizations, so that the ground would be paved for dialogue
among civilizations in the framework of technological exchange.
General
Topics of the seminar are:
Comparative
study of Iran and world architecture geometry
Process
of emergence and formation of technology and building materials
Describing
the structure of a building based on its geometry, building material,
technology and the comparative study of these issues
Ways
of utilizing non-fossil energy sources in Iran (water mills, wind
mills, etc.)
Technology
of building elements and components in Iran with regard to different
regional construction patterns (domes, walls, patios, covered
passages, caravanserais, cowls, ice holes, minarets, etc.)
Role
of geometry in utilizing water sources and development of cities and
communities in Iran, compared with far and neighboring lands (canals,
dikes, dams, irrigation systems, etc.)
Abstracts
should be sent before September 6, 2001. Evaluation results will be
announced at September 22, and full texts of the selected papers should be
sent before October 22, 2001 to:
Architecture
and Urban Development Group
International Centre for Dialogue Among Civilizations
91 Lavassani St., Tehran, Iran
Tel: (+9821) 221 1210
Fax: (+9821) 221 1211
Architecture and Urban
Planning Group of the International Centre for Dialogue Among
Civilizations intends to hold a seminar entitled “Dialogue among Iranian
and World Architecture and Urban Planning in Ancient Times” on November
7, 2001.
GOAL
The seminar focuses on
the recognition of similarities and differences as well as the exchanges
in the field of Architecture and Urban Planning, and so attempts to pave
the ground for Dialogue among Civilizations in this field. The discussions
will concern studies on the ways of establishing dialogue, attributes and
distinctions of each of the civilizations involved in dialogue, the
journey of these elements and their effects and transformation in other
cultural areas, with the aim of finding common grounds for dialogue and
the initiation of Dialogue. This is a way in which the objective of this
seminar – Dialogue among Iranian and World Architecture and Urban
Planning – may be achieved.
DIALOGUE
Human development in
the course of history has been made possible through the interaction and
exchange of cultures and civilizations. The geographical situation of Iran
has turned this country into a bridge between East and West. Iran has been
a connecting point for cultures, where achievements were exchanged. It
received, added to what was received, and handed it over to the world
again.
Studying the science
and technology in the structure of architecture and urban planning of each
country, observing what it receives and what it has or has had can be a
start for a self build-up, and establishment of a logical relation between
different civilizations, so that the ground would be paved for dialogue
among civilizations in the framework of technological exchange.
General Topics of the
seminar are:
Exchanges in the
Culture of Architecture between Iran and Ancient Civilizations
A. Comparative Studies on:
Ideal
Models
Shrines
and Temples
Governmental
and Military Buildings
Prayer
Houses
Gardens
and Amusement Places
Trade
Centres and Market Places
Designs
and Adornments
B.
Effects of Thought on the Exchanges in the Culture of Architecture
C. Physical Environment and its Role in the Exchanges in the Culture of
Architecture
D. Architectural Response of Iran to the Architectural Beliefs
Exchanges
in the Culture of Urban Planning between Iran and Ancient Civilizations
Comparative Studies on:
Ideal
City Models
City’s
Structure
De
Public
Places
Trade and Public Service Buildings
Abstracts
should be sent before September 6, 2001. Evaluation results will be
announced at September 22, and full texts of the selected papers should be
sent before October 22, 2001 to:
Architecture
and Urban Development Group
International Centre for Dialogue Among Civilizations
91 Lavassani St., Tehran, Iran
Tel: (+9821) 221 1210
Fax: (+9821) 221 1211
International seminar “Dialogue among Iranian and World Architecture and Urban Planning in the Islamic Era / November 8, 2001 / Tehran, Iran / Organized by ICDAC
Architecture and Urban Planning Group of the International Centre for Dialogue Among Civilizations intends to hold a seminar entitled “Dialogue among Iranian and World Architecture and Urban Planning in the Islamic Era” on November 8, 2001.
GOAL
The seminar focuses on
the recognition of similarities and differences as well as the exchanges
in the field of Architecture and Urban Planning, and so attempts to pave
the ground for Dialogue among Civilizations in this field. The discussions
will concern studies on the ways of establishing dialogue, attributes and
distinctions of each of the civilizations involved in dialogue, the
journey of these elements and their effects and transformation in other
cultural areas, with the aim of finding common grounds for dialogue and
the initiation of Dialogue. This is a way in which the objective of this
seminar – Dialogue among Iranian and World Architecture and Urban
Planning – may be achieved.
DIALOGUE
The
world of Islam, with a wide range of cultures and civilizations, covers a
vast geographical territory. A multidimensional, multi-faceted world,
which has played a serious role in the development of human culture and
civilization.
With
the establishment of a relationship and dialogue in two internal and
external areas, Islamic thought has paved the ground for a historical
dialogue among cultures and civilizations of the Islamic nations within
themselves, and with non-Islamic nations. Iranian culture, bonded with the
Islamic Empire, has gone through a golden age of prosperity with the
exchange of cultural achievements, specifically in architecture and urban
planning. It has lead a spirited dialogue with the world throughout the
Islamic Empire, a dialogue that has been very influential in the
development of the culture of Iranian and Islamic architecture and urban
planning.
Studying
the process and degree of such exchanges in architecture and urban
planning can open to an arresting panorama of a repeat dialogue among
civilizations of the world, an achievement that is the ultimate goal of
this seminar.
General
Topics of the seminar are:
Exchanges in the Culture of Iranian
Architecture in the Islamic Era
A.
Comparative Studies on:
B. Effects of Thought on the Exchanges in
the Culture of Architecture
C. Physical Environment and its Role in the Exchanges in the Culture of
Architecture
D. Architectural Response of Iran to the Architectural Beliefs
Exchanges
in the Culture of Iranian Urban Development in the Islamic Era
Islamic City’s Structure and the Role of Iran’s Urban Development in such Structure
Designing Models of Housing Areas and Districts
Public Places
Abstracts
should be sent before September 6, 2001. Evaluation results will be
announced at September 22, and full texts of the selected papers should be
sent before October 22, 2001 to:
Architecture and Urban Development Group
International Centre for Dialogue Among Civilizations
91 Lavassani St., Tehran, Iran
Tel: (+9821) 221 1210
Fax: (+9821) 221 1211
"Year
of Dialogue Among Civilizations" Poetry
Reading / New York /
March 29, 2001/Organized by UN
United Nations will hold a poetry reading on the occasion of “Year of
Dialogue among Civilizations” on Thursday March 29, 2001, from 7:00 pm
to 8:30 pm. Personal
Representative for the Secretary-General for the "Year of Dialogue
Among Civilizations”
Giandomenico
Picco
will introduce the program.
Pulitzer
Prize-Winning Poet Yusef
Komunyakaa, Poet
and Writer Joyce
Carol Oates, Poet
Mei-mei
Berssenbrugge and Poet
James
Ragan will read their works at the Conference Room 4, United
Nations Building in New York City. Tickets
are required to enter the UN Building.
Intl. Letter-writing
Contest: Friendships and differences between us/ Tehran, Iran / Organized
by IRI Post Company, ICDAC, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Culture and
Islamic Guidance, IRIB, Organization for Intellectual Development of
Children and Young Adults, and Office
of Arts and Culture of Tehran Municipality
IRI Post Company along with other members of the Universal Post Union (UPU),
will hold an international letter-writing on the occasion of Year 2001,
entitled “Friendships and Differences between us”.
8-15 year old children and young adults are invited to write letters for
children of their own age all around the world and talk about friendships
and differences between people of the world regardless of race, color,
wealth, power, and all other features that make people different.
Of the letters sent to IRI Post Company by Feb. 19, 2001,
110 letters will be awarded. One of the selected works will receive the
special award and be sent to the Universal Post Union in Switzerland to
participate in the International Letter-writing Contest. Those interested
to participate should send their works to: Number 1 Office of IRI Post
Company, Room 110, 1st Floor, Dr. Ali Shariati St., Tehran, PO Box
16315-567
International
Mt. Damavand Ascent/ 14 - 21 June 2001/ Organized
by Araz
Adventure Tours Company, IRI Mountaineering Federation, and International
Centre for Dialogue Among Civilizations, Tehran, Iran
| On
the occasion of year 2001, year of " Dialogue Among
Civilizations" as well as "Year of Visiting Iran", Araz
Adventure Tours Company with the cooperation of the Islamic Republic of
Iran Mountaineering Federation, and International Centre for Dialogue
Among Civilizations organizes International Mt. Damavand Ascent
from 14th to 21st of June, 2001. |
|
All the Mountaineering Federations and Alpine clubs of the world have been invited to participate in this International Ascent.
Mt. Damavand, the highest mountain in Iran (5671 m) with its volcanic peak is located almost in the center of Alborz mountain range.| A summit of the parliamentary commissions of four ancient civilizations of Italy, Egypt, Greece and Iran was held in Cairo on Jan.23, 2001. Speaker of Italian parliament Mr. Giovani Viloante opened the summit with a speech on Dialogue among Civilizations. Mr. Viloante’s presence in the summit demonstrated the grave significance governors of Italy hold for international relations of the four countries in Italy’s Mediterranean strategy. |
|
Chairman of Egyptian parliament Mr. Fathi Sorur expressed precise
political dispositions against globalization and homogenization of
cultures, stressing that dialogue among civilizations will lead to
cooperation and understanding among peoples of the world. He also pointed
out the importance of education and media in promoting dialogue among
civilizations.
Also the head of the Culture and Media Committee in the Egyptian
parliament said dialogue among civilizations was the basis for coexistence
and preservation of the cultural identity.
The summit was organized to be
held in three sessions each discussing one of the following issues:
1.
The role of mass media and educational institutes in promotion of
reciprocal awareness of civilizations, languages and traditions of the
four countries, chaired by the parliamentary commission of Italy.
2.
Ways of supporting dialogue between the four countries’ younger
generation and regarding cooperation programs between universities and
cultural institutes, chaired by the parliamentary commission of Iran.
3.
Launching an Internet website on Dialogue among Civilizations,
aimed to establish a joint online library of the four countries, chaired
by the parliamentary commission of Greece.
Iranian representatives to the summit included two members of the Islamic Parliament and Dr. Sadria of the International Centre for Dialogue Among Civilizations. In addition to speeches delivered by Parliamentary members of Iran, and theoretical and applied discourses presented on Dialogue among Civilizations, Iranian commission had a major role in composing the summit resolution and putting forth propositions and amendments.
5th International Philosophical Symposium “Dialogue of Civilizations: East-West” / April 27-30, May3-6, 2001 / Moscow, Russia / Organized by Inter-universitarian Centre for Studies of Eastern Philosophy and Culture of the People’s Friendship University of Russia and Helwan University (Egypt)
The symposium was held in Moscow in the building of
Humanitarian faculties of Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia (PFUR).
The scientific theme of the symposium was: “Cultural Identity and
Globalization”. The participants discussed questions related to the
preservation of cultural identity of Western and Eastern societies under
the process of globalization. The purpose of the symposium was a
constructive exchange of opinions on probable trends and directions of
development of modern civilizations. The organizers of the symposium used
all their efforts to ensure a free exchange of ideas, and also
representation of a wide spectrum of philosophical traditions and schools.
Working languages of the symposium were Russian, English, Arabic.
The Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia has wide
experience in holding international symposiums, including the four
previous symposiums held in 1992, 1995, 1997 and 1999. These symposiums
have contributed to clearing out the philosophical bases of history’s
logic, ideals, norms and values that determine today’s socio-cultural
dialogue between East and West. Well known Russian and foreign scholars
have taken part in those symposiums.
The Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia is a
worldwide-recognized educational and scientific centre. More than 12000
students, post-graduate students, trainees and attending physicians from
117 countries of the world are now studying in the University. The
University is a member of the International Association of Universities,
actively cooperates with the UNO and its specialized organizations. The
research programmes of the University on various branches of knowledge are
focused on wide and active cooperation with all interested persons and
organizations.
The “Dialogue of
Civilizations: East-West” symposium was carried out under the initiative
of the inter-universitarian Centre for Studies of Eastern Philosophy and
Culture at the Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia.
Co-organizers of the Symposium:
Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia
Helwan University (Egypt)
Financial Support:
Ministry of Education of the Russian Federation
Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia
Moscow Factory of Base Metals’ Processing
The Saudi Academy in Moscow
With the Participation of:
The Council for Research in Values and Philosophy
Information Support:
Obschaya Gazetta
The International Scientific Committee:
Co-Chair:
Prof. Nur Kirabaev – Dean, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences of
the Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia
Prof. Zebeda Atta – Dean, Faculty of Arts, Helwan University (Egypt)
Members:
Dr. Sherif Hilmi (Cultural Attache, Embassy of Egypt in Russia)
Dr. Jabir Osfun (Secretary of the Supreme Cultural Council, Lecturer,
Faculty of Arts, Helwan University, Egypt)
Dr. Naamat Ahmad Fuad (Writer, Correspondent of the newspaper “Al-Ahram”,
Member of the Council of Faculty of Arts, Helwan University, Egypt)
Dr. Majid Al-Harbi (Director of the Saudi Academy in Moscow)
Prof. George Mclean (Catholic University of America, USA, The Council for
Research in Values and Philosophy)
Prof. Duktieweiz P. (Carlton University, Canada)
Prof. Rustam Zangoza (Kiev, Ukraine)
Prof. Makariev P. (Sofia University, Bulgaria)
Prof. Al-Janabi M. (Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia)
Prof. Solonin Y. N. (Dean, Faculty of Philosophy, St. Petersburg State
University)
Prof. Fernandes-Rodriges A. M. (Moscow State Pedagogical University)
Prof. Kirillina S. A. (Institute of Asia and Africa, Moscow State
University named after M. V. Lomonosov)
Prof. Pochta Y. M. (Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia)
Basic Themes of the Symposium:
An
unexpected guest of this symposium was President of International Centre
for Dialogue among Civilizations (ICDAC) Dr. Ataollah Mohajerani who
attended the symposium on April 28 during a trip to Moscow.
At
the beginning of the session on April 28th, Iranian cultural
attaché in Moscow Mr. Mehdi Sanaee gave a speech on the coexistence of
today’s civilizations and its role in the process of world’s social
existence. He gave an evaluation of the occurrence of constructive
phenomena with regard to the theory of Social System, finding it positive
only when it does not impede other social phenomena. According to this
theory, every phenomenon or trend is a part of a whole, and it occurs and
affects with the aim to lead that whole towards a single goal.
He
also introduced and discussed President Khatami’s initiative on Dialogue
among Cultures and Civilizations. His speech was successfully made in
Russian and appreciated by the chairman of the seminar.
The
speech was followed by a number of questions raised by the audience on the
issues of Iran’s view towards Globalization, its solutions and position
in this regard, the role of women’s cooperation in the development
process, social changes in the country and also several issues brought up
in Mr. Sanaee’s speech. To the invitation of the audience, Dr.
Mohajerani took the stand to answer the questions.
On
the issue of Globalization, ICDAC president stressed that Iran, while a
believer of the concept of Globalization, firmly insists on maintaining
its own cultural, national and Islamic identity, and by no means defines
Globalization as Americanization. He also emphasized on Iran’s solid
belief in Diversity.
Regarding
the role of women in Iran’s society, Dr. Mohajerani briefly mentioned
the active presence of Iranian women in social, political, scientific and
artistic fields.
Following
Dr. Mohajerani’s talks, chairman of the session Dr. Nur. S. Kirabaev
expressed his interest in joint scientific activities with International
Centre for Dialogue among Civilizations and Iran’s Embassy and Consulate
in Moscow. He further proposed several international seminars attending
Iranian delegates, which was set to be followed up by Mr. Sanaee.
