Yes, the Avatar is born roughly each generation or so who is tasked with keeping balance in the world. Each Avatar can control the four elements, and also serves as a bridge to the spirit world.

[Iroh looks around at the place. It certainly wasn't what he was accustomed to, but very few things in this place were. Learning more about this strange new land would be the first thing]

Ah, thank you Saleh. It was most kind of you to lead me here.

[He bows as is appropriate]

I enjoyed the company and our talk, truly.