ISFAHAN -- The International Congress of Islamic Arts and Crafts opened this week in Isfahan, with 120 artists and art experts attending the opening ceremony.

Minister of Culture and Islamic Guidance Ahmad Masjed-Jamei read a message from President Khatami at the ceremony, which said that Islamic art is derived from talent, experience and knowledge -- the core of spirituality and a strong pillar for the rich civilization of Islam.

Khatami's message stated, "Islamic art has always depicted the spiritual world through the means of the material world, with the end result of this union a true witness to the existence of the hereafter.

"Such witnesses, that are derived from the core of the spiritual and religious traditions of Islam, have always been the essence of Islamic art throughout history. The creators of such art, whoever and wherever they are, are the true agents of this everlasting tradition.

"The most important mission of Islam is to be culturally active in the world of globalization. And in this age of transition, the Islamic world's main need is to create a picture of the true image of the cultural identity of Muslims."

Khatami's message also said that without a doubt, the Islamic world needs arts more than politics in order to answer today's problems.

The main aim of the congress is to develop and increase the importance of the arts and crafts in the Islamic world and to encourage all artists working in those fields.

The International Congress of Islamic Arts and Crafts will continue until October 9.