By Diplomacy Journal Lee Kap-soo

“Navruz is a celebration of humanity's connection with nature, inspiring constructive and prosperous actions and bestowing inspiration and strength,” said H.E. Salohiddin Kirom, Amb. of the Republic of Tajikistan to the Republic of Korea on April 5.

Delivering a congratulatory message on the occasion of celebration of International Navruz Holiday, Amb. Salohiddin Kirom said at a festive event held at Embassy Building in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, “As the Founder of Peace and National Unity, Leader of the Nation, President of the Republic of Tajikistan, Emomali Rahmon, articulated in his Navruz message this year, it is the revival of the humanistic rituals of Navruz and other Aryan festivals—including Sada, Tirgon, and Mehrgon—achieved through our independence, that ensures the sustainability and perpetuation of the national, cultural, scientific, and literary values of the Aryan people throughout history.”

Noting that Tajikistan is the authentic cradle of Navru, he said, “In our cherished homeland, Tajikistan, Navruz is regarded not only as a cultural and folk festival but also as a profound tradition of nature’s renewal and a pursuit of abundance.”

The ambassador said, “Navruz, an august and ancient tradition of our cultural forebears, has been observed for over six millennia, symbolizing the commencement of the new year, the vernal equinox, and the rejuvenation of nature.”

Commenting that the rituals and ceremonies of Navruz embody the highest ideals of humanity and the purity of nature, fostering a sense of national identity and cultivating the moral fabric of our society, he said, “During Navruz, our people uphold cherished traditions of compassion, such as visiting orphans, the disabled, and the elderly, and demonstrating kindness and generosity towards those in need.”

Amb. Salohiddin Kirom continued to say, “It is a source of immense pride for us Tajiks that this ancient festival, through the initiative of the Founder of Peace and National Unity, Leader of the Nation, President of the Republic of Tajikistan, Honorable Emomali Rahmon, was inscribed on the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity and has been celebrated as an international holiday worldwide since 2010.”

He added, “The global recognition of Nowruz reinforces our commitment to upholding and preserving the moral and spiritual traditions and invaluable characteristics of this great national celebration, unique to the Tajik people, and to presenting it to the world with dignity.”