Page 72 - MINISTRY OF CULTURE PR REPORT - APRIL 2025
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4/18/25, 11:47 AM ALECSO Awards the First-Ever Arab Cultural Merit Medal to the ...
“Today, we celebrate the awarding of the Arab Cultural Merit Medal – First Class to His Highness Sheikh Dr.
Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, in appreciation of his distinguished cultural journey and his major role in
supporting cultural initiatives and promoting regional and international cultural dialogue. This medal is a
testament to a visionary cultural approach that transformed Sharjah into a hub of creativity, literature, and the
arts.”
He added:
“The cultural, literary, and intellectual efforts of His Highness have earned global recognition, leading to
Sharjah being named World Book Capital, as well as Capital of Arab and Islamic Culture—among other
prestigious honors that have helped elevate Arab culture on the global stage and preserve Arabic as a vessel of
thought and creativity.”
In his speech, Abdullah Al Owais conveyed greetings from His Highness and expressed his gratitude to
ALECSO for its tireless work in promoting Arab culture.
“It is a great honor to represent His Highness at this important Arab cultural gathering, which reflects the
continuing collaboration between ALECSO and cultural institutions across the Arab world.”
He added:
“His Highness has long believed in the vital role of culture in the progress and development of societies. Over
the past five decades, his efforts have led to the establishment of an extensive cultural infrastructure in Sharjah,
including theaters, museums, cultural centers, and a vast network of public libraries—celebrating this year the
centenary of Sharjah’s first public library.”
He also mentioned the establishment of various festivals in Sharjah dedicated to poetry, theatre, visual arts,
Arabic calligraphy, and literature, all supported by His Highness and resulting in a wide range of awards,
including the Sharjah Award for Arab Creativity – First Edition, aimed at young talents.
Highlighting His Highness’s dedication to the Arabic language, Al Owais noted:
“His Highness's most treasured cultural gift to the Arab and Islamic world is the Historical Dictionary of the
Arabic Language—a monumental project completed in just seven years.”
The audience also viewed a video presentation highlighting key cultural milestones in the journey of the Ruler
of Sharjah, showcasing the evolution of his cultural vision and the international impact of his contributions.
Another documentary focused on ALECSO, founded in 1970 as a specialized agency of the Arab League,
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