An advanced training course "Islamic Perspective on Women and Family" for Russian speakers was organized in Iran by the country's Islamic Culture and Relations Organization. The event that took place between February 26 and March 4 was attended by delegations fr om different parts of the world, including a delegation of Russia Muslimas Union headed by its chairwoman Nailya Ziganshina.

The timetable was rather busy; every day, attendees listened to lecturers fr om the best universities of Iran, as well as famous politicians and public figures. They also discussed vital and important issues, such as women rights in Islam, Islamic feminism, Islamic veil in the West, women in Qur'an, media coverage of events and others.

In addition to everyday studies, participants of the courses had a vast cultural programme, and also attended many important and interesting meetings. Already in the first day of their stay in Tehran, they were toured around the parliament of the Islamic Republic wh ere they met with the head of the womens' section of the parliament, which consists of 9 MPs who stand on guard of women's rights in the country.

The cultural programme also included visits to mosques, exhibitions and museums. Members of delegations were given an opportunity to talk to the staff of Tehran Womens' University Alzahra, visit national library, TV tower and Russian radio station.

One of the days was reserved for a tour around the city of Qazwin, wh ere members of the delegation met the governor and visited one of the best technical universities of the world, QIUA.

"Iranians surprised me with their openness, friendliness, great sense of humour and positive attitude. Thanks to their hospitality and warm-heartedness, our busy cultural programme didn't turn into dull formal sightseeing. During all this time, we were surrounded by the atmosphere of unity and friendliness," said member of Russian delegation Anastasia Bastyleva.

And without doubt, these courses helped further strengthen Russian-Iranian ties.

RMC press service