Sharjah: Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, Chairman of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), and HE Raja Rabia, Consul General of France to Dubai and the Northern Emirates, have discussed developing joint cultural programmes with a focus on France’s participation in the 40th edition of Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF)

During the meeting, the two officials explored ways to strengthen collaboration and  discussed Sharjah’s future participation in cultural events to be held in Paris. Joint cultural activities, both parties emphasised, would not only facilitate the opening of new avenues of dialogue and communication between Emiratis and French people, but also facilitate knowledge and expertise exchange between authors and publishers of the two countries.

Ahmed Al Ameri said: “Cultural bridges between cities present new avenues for dialogue, reflection, learning and relearning through which nations can benefit mutually. This is critical in today’s world as nations actively seek to achieve sustainable development in economic, knowledge and creative sectors, built on a foundation of respect for diversity and a passion for books.”

He added: “The meeting aligns with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, which is aimed at highlighting the emirate’s cultural project and sharing its experiences with cities around the world to promote the concept of knowledge-based societies and supporting the book industry locally and internationally.”

Al Ameri concluded, “Sharjah has a long-standing relationship with Paris, and we hope this meeting is a new step towards furthering our partnerships, with a focus on encouraging cultural activities and supporting the publishing industry.”

For her part, HE Raja Rabia lauded Sharjah’s cultural project, noting that the emirate’s leading experience in supporting the book industry as well as cultural activities in the region reaffirmed the vital role knowledge and culture play in inspiring creativity across sectors. She noted that the French capital looks forward to continue partnering with Sharjah on cultural projects and participating in the upcoming edition of the SIBF.