Time to regain past glory of traditional ties: PM Modi

Saying the richness of Persian heritage is an integral part of the fabric of the Indian society, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said time has come for us to regain the past glory of traditional ties and links between India and Iran.

Prime Minister Modi was speaking at International Conference on 'retrospect and prospect' of India and Iran relations, where he released Persian translation of the Panchatantra.

"The richness of Persian heritage is an integral part of the fabric of the Indian society. A part of Iranian culture lives in Indian hearts," he said.

Asserting that as two ancient civilisations, New Delhi and Tehran, are known for our ability to be inclusive and welcoming to foreign cultures, he said it was time to regain the past glory of traditional ties and links.

He also lauded the cultural relations shared between the two nations, saying: "In a world that talks of strategic convergence, India and Iran are two civilisations that celebrate the meeting of our great cultures."

He also spoke about Persian manuscript 'Kalileh-wa-Dimneh' and the historical links both the nations share.

"The great medieval poets of India have called Persian and Sanskrit two sisters," he said.

Prime Minister Modi also highlighted the Sufism connection between India and Iran.

"Sufism, a rich product of our ancient links, carried its message of true love, tolerance and acceptance to the entire mankind," he said, adding, "the spirit of Sufism is also reflected in the Indian concept of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam', the World as one family."

He lauded the occasion saying, "I am happy to see that ICCR and Farhangistan have worked closely to organise this Conference.