According to Semnan University Public Relations, the president of Semnan University, in the opening ceremony of this international conference, considered the holding of this scientific event a valuable step towards introducing the tourism capacities of Semnan province and a platform for exchanging ideas, experiences and cooperation between the university, the government and tourism industry activists, and said: The main goal of this conference is to promote a scientific view of tourism and strengthen cultural and economic ties with the countries along the Silk Road.

Dr. Saedodin added: Fortunately, in recent years, tourism has been emphasized as one of the main axes of the province's development, and it is an important and proud point that for the first time in the history of the country's development planning, tourism has been given an independent and separate heading in the Seventh Development Plan.

He continued: This issue reflects the change in the attitude of policymakers towards the cultural and economic potential of tourism. On the other hand, Semnan province, with its diverse nature from desert to forest, valuable historical monuments, and rich cultural heritage, internationally renowned and prominent universities, including Semnan University, can be a successful example of sustainable tourism development in the country.

The president of Semnan University referred to Semnan's membership in the Silk Road Tourism Cities Union and said: This membership has provided a valuable opportunity for the province to have a more active presence in the international arena.

Dr. Saedodin added: The Silk Road Cities Union is a platform for cultural and economic interaction between countries and cities on the historical route of this road, and Semnan joining it will pave the way for introducing the province's tourism capacities to the world and benefiting from successful international experiences. This event will bring us one step closer to globalization and constructive interaction with the international community.

Dr. Saedodin also mentioned the role of Semnan University in this direction and stated: Semnan University, with its independent Faculty of Tourism and its capable faculty members, a complete portfolio of tourism education at the undergraduate level in tourism and hospitality, master's degree in various majors, and doctorate in tourism, has always been alongside the institutions responsible for the development of tourism in the province.

The president of Semnan University stated, "Holding this international conference is part of the university's social mission in connecting industry, university, and society. In addition, the presence of more than three thousand international students from different countries at Semnan University is a manifestation of our scientific and cultural diplomacy, which plays an effective role in promoting the province's international status and developing scientific and educational tourism."

Farajollah Iliat, Deputy Coordinator of Civil Affairs of Semnan Governor, also announced at the conference that 37 kilometers of the Haram-to-Haram freeway will be operational within the next month in Semnan province and said: Improving the quality of roads will definitely be effective in attracting tourists.

He said: The government's view on tourism credits is special, and we hope to use this capacity in Semnan province as well.

Dr. Abdolmohammad Kashian, Executive Secretary of the First Semnan International Tourism Conference: Silk Road, Opportunities and Prospects, also announced that about 350 articles were sent to the conference secretariat and said: After the reviews, about 215 articles were accepted, of which eight articles will be presented as keynote speeches and 60 articles as posters on the day of the conference.