Doha: HE Minister of Culture Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Hamad Al-Thani emphasized that cultural cooperation among the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states is crucial to confronting cultural challenges in the digital age, where the world becomes more interconnected, and the risk of erasing or overlooking unique cultures grows.
In his speech at the opening of the 28th meeting of GCC ministers of culture, His Excellency highlighted that culture has historically been the thread that preserves the regions heritage, fostering a sense of pride in its identity. He pointed out that culture acts as a safeguard and plays a vital role in human development and the progress of nations, as it shapes thought and life.
HE the minister also discussed the 2020-2030 cultural strategy for GCC countries, which affirms a commitment to Arab-Islamic identity and GCC-specific uniqueness, while also respecting other cultures. His Excellency noted that cultural activities in the Gulf reflect the success of this strategy in creating an en
vironment conducive to creativity and enabling cultural figures to contribute to society. His Excellency referenced the fifth edition of the Gulf Narration Forum, recently held in Doha, as a testament to the growing interest in narrative writing, which reflects human values and future perspectives. HE the minister expressed hope that the meeting would further enhance joint cultural efforts, wishing success in advancing Gulf culture.
In his remarks, GCC Secretary-General Jassim Muhammad Albudaiwi thanked the leaders of GCC states for their continuous support of cultural initiatives, which has visibly impacted the cultural landscape in the region. He stressed that preserving GCC cultural roots strengthens the regions civilizational achievements and insulates it from the challenges of time. The collective planning of cultural work within the GCC has led to significant achievements and bolstered the region’s standing globally.
The meeting’s agenda included important topics such as the 2020-2030 GCC cultural str
ategy and the annual report of the Translation and Arabization Center, based in Oman. The plan for the center’s future work was also approved, and discussions were held on potential cultural collaborations with neighboring countries like Iraq, Jordan, and Morocco.
On the sidelines of the 28th meeting of GCC Ministers of Culture, HE Minister of Culture Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Hamad Al-Thani Qatar’s Minister of Culture, along with his GCC counterparts, honored a group of distinguished creatives from the GCC states. The honorees included individuals from various fields of art, heritage, and media, reflecting the region’s cultural richness and diversity.
From the State of Qatar, researcher in heritage Ali Al-Fayyad and composer and media figure Mohammed Abdullah Al Marzouqi were honored. The recognition also extended to creatives from other GCC countries, including Shaikha Mubarak Al Nakhi and Marai Al Hulayyil from the UAE, Dalal Al Shroogi and Abdullah Mohammed Al Khan from Bahrain, Nabila Abdullah Al-Bassam a
nd Marzouk bin Sannitan bin Tanbak from Saudi Arabia, Yahya bin Salam Al Mundhiri from Oman, and Thuraya Al Baqsami and Nabil Shuail from Kuwait.
Assistant Secretary-General for Economic and Development Affairs at the GCC General Secretariat Khalid bin Ali bin Salem Al Sunaidi praised Doha as a hub of creativity and a beacon of culture. He acknowledged the unlimited support of Qatar’s leadership for cultural initiatives within the GCC, and expressed pride in the regional and global standing that the GCC countries have achieved in various fields, including culture. Al Sunaidi added that the ceremony was not just a celebration but a reaffirmation that culture remains the beating heart of the Gulf region. The recognition of these creatives serves as an inspiration for future generations to continue along the path of creativity with authenticity and tradition.
Speaking on behalf of the honorees, Omani writer Yahya bin Salam Al Mundhiri expressed gratitude for the recognition, noting that such honors are a civil
ized gesture that motivates creators to give more. He emphasized the importance of continued efforts by the GCC ministries of culture to nurture and empower the region’s cultural and creative fields, in line with scientific and cultural advancements.
He also lauded Qatar’s successful organization of this cultural event and commended the GCC General Secretariat for its ongoing dedication to supporting cultural and scientific activities, highlighting the value of honoring intellectuals, scientists, and creatives.
Source: Qatar News Agency