Speaking on the sidelines of the second international conference for holy shrines custodians in Iraq, Malek Rahmati said: “Given the importance of connection and cooperation among holy shrines, the plans, ideas and resolutions by the conference need to be evaluated, followed up, and put on agenda in the future conferences”.

He also pointed to the necessity of establishing a committee for the plenipotentiary representatives of custodians, suggesting, “This has to be taken into consideration in future gatherings in order to pave the way for all holy shrines to express and exchange views”.

Elsewhere in his remarks, Rahmati touched upon the media, noting that “the media play a central role in conveying the message of Prophet Muhammad’s Infallible Household across the world”. Accordingly, he proposed that the issue of content production for the promotion of ‘pilgrimage with wisdom’ using media be put on agenda in the future.

Rahmati further drew attention to the necessity of setting up a strategic document for holy shrines cooperation.

He continued his remarks by talking about the achievements of Imam Reza shrine in social activities such as establishing a youth institute and women center.

Further, he talked about facilitating pilgrimage, adding: “Addressing some problems such as affordable accommodation, provision of necessary goods and healthcare for the pilgrims have always been a concern for Imam Reza shrine, and we have taken special measures to meet these demands, particularly on occasions when there are millions of pilgrims”.

He also referred to the successful track record of Imam Reza shrine in providing services to Arab pilgrims, especially those from Iraq, and said Imam Reza shrine would welcome the exchange of experience among holy shrines.

He concluded his remarks by expressing that Imam Reza shrine, in northeastern Iranian city of Mashhad, was ready to host the third gathering of custodians of holy shrines in Iran, Iraq and Syria.