The members of United Interfaith Foundation - India (UIFI) and IHA Foundation welcomed the visiting dignitaries from Iran who were invited to the city, the delegation was led by Maulana Mahdi Mahdavipour, the India Representative of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, who participated for an interfaith dialogue aimed at fostering peace and understanding among diverse communities. The Interfaith Dialogue brought together religious leaders, scholars, and representatives from various faiths and backgrounds to engage in a constructive exchange of ideas. The Interfaith dialogue organized by United Interfaith Foundation - India (UIFI) and IHA Foundation showcased the State’s commitment to promoting harmony and unity among different religious communities. The presence of Maulana Mahdi Mahdavipour, a distinguished representative of Ayatollah Khamenei, exemplified the significance of India and Iran's longstanding cordial relations. This event served as a testament to the strong cultural and historical ties that bind the two nations together.

During the dialogue, participants engaged in thoughtful discussions on various topics, including religious tolerance, peaceful coexistence, and the importance of interfaith dialogue in addressing common challenges faced by societies today, which is the need of the hour. Maulana Mahdi Mahdavipour emphasized the need for mutual understanding and respect, emphasizing that fostering peace and brotherhood among different communities is essential for social harmony and progress. He was pleased and congratulated the members of United Interfaith Foundation – India to fostering, safekeeping and promoting the true social fabric of India in the State.

Following the interfaith dialogue, a Special Prayer for Peace and Brotherhood was conducted, led by representatives of different faiths, for World Peace and Harmony, and also to express solidarity with the people of Manipur, who have been affected, displaced and have lost their loved ones during the past two months. The Religious leaders called for an immediate end to violence and sought a lasting and sustainable peace for all, wherever there is general sense of insecurity among people of all religion, caste or creed. The participants prayed for the well- being of the people of the West Bengal and extended their condolences to those who lost their lives during the recent Elections held in the State. The prayer served as a powerful reminder of the importance of unity and compassion during these challenging times.

India and Iran have enjoyed a longstanding relationship based on historical, cultural, and economic ties. Both nations have consistently strived to promote mutual understanding and cooperation, emphasizing the significance of interfaith dialogue and collaboration in achieving global peace and prosperity. Both countries have close historical links dating back to Indus Valley civilization period. In ancient days there was trade between the coast of Southern Iran and India though Persian gulf and Arabian Sea. We have a robust economic and commercial tie. We export tea, sugar, pharmaceutical products, machines and import crude oil, dry fruits, carpets, chemicals and glassware. Iran is an important nation in India 's neighborhood and our interaction over the centuries have enriched each other in the fields of language, religion, arts, culture, cuisine and other traditions. The two countries enjoy warm, friendly relations and co- operate with each other in a wide range of fields.

“We were honoured to host Maulana Mahdi Mahdavipour, the India Representative of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei in the city. His participation in this interfaith dialogue and the subsequent Prayer for Peace and Brotherhood demonstrated the commitment of the United Interfaith Foundation India and its partners to building bridges of understanding and fostering a culture of peace and tolerance across cultures and nations. Such initiatives play a vital role in promoting dialogue, harmony, and cooperation among diverse religious communities.”, said Satnam Singh Ahluwalia, General Secretary United Interfaith Foundation – India and Chairman IHA Foundation “I am grateful for the warm reception extended to me by the United Interfaith Foundation – India and IHA Foundation and the opportunity to engage in meaningful interfaith dialogue. The discussions emphasized the importance of mutual understanding, religious tolerance, and peaceful coexistence among diverse communities. India and Iran share a long history of friendship, and events like these reaffirm our commitment to strengthening cultural ties and fostering peace and brotherhood. Together, we can create a world where harmony and understanding prevail.”said Maulana Mahdi Mahdavipour, the India Representative of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei "Through this interfaith dialogue and the shared Prayer for Peace and Brotherhood, we reaffirm our dedication to nurturing a world where understanding and compassion transcend religious boundaries. The presence and engagement of Maulana Mahdi Mahdavipour, the India Representative of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, exemplify our commitment to fostering unity and respect among different communities. Together, we can create a future where harmony and cooperation prevail, bridging cultures and nations for a better tomorrow.”, said Most Rev Thomas D’Souza, President United Interfaith Foundation – India and Archbishop of Calcutta.