The Standing Committee for Economic and Commercial Cooperation (COMCEC), which is affiliated with the Organization of the Islamic Cooperation, has awarded a $97,000 prize to Iran for its project titled “Inclusion of Local Communities in Sustainable Muslim Friendly Tourism,” CHTN reported on Sunday.

The scheme will be initially implemented as a pilot project in Iran, Turkey and Kyrgyzstan, then it would be carried out in other Islamic countries and finally it will find its way to other countries under the auspices of UNESCO, the report said.

“Creating jobs, [rebuilding] rural economy, and establishing synergy are amongst strategic objectives of this project.”

The COMCEC Project Funding supports the top projects that are proposed by the member countries in order to get recognition.

For the research projects, the payments are made in two installments; the first will be paid after the first draft of the research study is approved by the COMCEC and the second will be paid after the approval of the research report, according to its website.

Realization of policy recommendations adopted by the COMCEC ministerial sessions, and enhancing solidarity and multilateral cooperation among member states are amongst objects that the Ankara-based Office follows.

Back in January, Iran allocated 24 trillion rials (some $600 million) to empowering rural areas and small towns in arenas of handicraft-associated jobs, ecotourism and hospitality industry.

Due to having a very diverse natural setting, Iran offers many to experience for the nature-loving travelers who may live with a nomad or rural family or enjoy an independent stay to learn about rustic routines, traditional art and culture. / Tehran times /