Payvand, Iran
July 25 2005

Entertainment Complex for non-Muslims to be established in Iran’s
Qeshm island

Tehran – 25 July, 2005 (CHN) – A residential, tourist and
entertainment complex will be soon constructed in Persian Gulf island
of Qeshm by Armenians who live in Iran. In the complex, Iranian
religious minorities and foreigners can experience entertainments
without usual Islamic limitations which are current in Iran.

“Marina tourist agency, which belongs to an Armenian lady, has
grasped the license for establishing the complex in which women and
men can swim jointly” said Ali Akbar Einollahi, the tourist deputy of
Qeshm free zone.

“The mentioned Agency has requested building a complex,” he added,
“in which Armenians and foreigners can have entertainments according
to their regulations, and also, can hold their ceremonies and
rituals.”

According to him, establishing such a complex can make a positive
influence on attracting foreign tourists who are now more
concentrated in Dubai.

He asserted that the initial license was issued in Tehran and the
second license is waiting to be signed by the province officials.

Only Armenian minority and foreigners are allowed to enter the
complex and the entrance of Iranian Moslems is forbidden. The special
ceremonies, like Christmas and The Easter, can also be held in the
complex.

Einollahi explained that these activities can provide entertainment
opportunities here in the country, so Iranians do not have to travel
to destinations like Dubai, with spending great expenses!

The initial plans, he indicated, are ready. A suitable plot of land
was chosen and handed to the agency. Iran Cultural Heritage and
Tourism organization will support the construction of the complex by
providing long-term loans.