Athens:Iran should be addressed with respect as a historic civilization, according to Tourism Minister Seyyed Reza Salehi-Amiri. He made these remarks in response to comments by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio regarding historical conflicts involving Iran and Greece.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Salehi-Amiri emphasized that Iran's identity and contribution to world history cannot be reduced to a single conflict or ruler. He highlighted Iran as one of the world's oldest continuous civilizations, contributing significantly to global culture and knowledge.

The minister also rejected the notion that Greek civilization is exclusively linked to the United States. He noted that figures like Socrates and Plato focused on justice and ethics, rather than the glorification of power.

Salehi-Amiri underscored the enduring nature of national identity, rooted in historical memory and cultural heritage, as opposed to the transient nature of political power. He remarked that powers may rise and fall, but nations with strong cultural foundations endure.

He further commented on Iran's resilience in the face of war, sanctions, and misrepresentation, attributing this strength to the nation's rich historical civilization and the spirit of its people. On October 7, in Athens, Rubio referred to historical events involving the armies of Xerxes, which Salehi-Amiri addressed in his response.