Beijing: The United Arab Emirates commenced its role as Guest of Honour at the 32nd Beijing International Book Fair, highlighted by a significant award for Emirati academic Prof. Mohamed Binhuwaidin. Prof. Binhuwaidin, who serves as the Dean of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences at United Arab Emirates University (UAEU), was honoured with the 19th Special Book Awards of China, which is the nation's top accolade for foreign experts contributing to global cultural exchange through publishing.
According to Emirates News Agency, the award was presented during the opening ceremony by Li Shulei, a Member of the Political Bureau and Head of the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee. This recognition was bestowed upon Prof. Binhuwaidin for his substantial contributions to the field of Chinese studies and bilateral research.
The book fair, running from 17th to 21st June at the China National Convention Centre, highlights the deepening cultural ties within the comprehensive strategic partnership between the UAE and China. The UAE delegation at the event's opening ceremony included prominent figures such as Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, Minister of Culture; Hussain bin Ibrahim Al Hammadi, UAE Ambassador to China; and Mubarak Al Nakhi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Culture, along with other cultural officials, publishers, and intellectuals from both nations.
Sheikh Salem emphasized that the UAE's participation as Guest of Honour demonstrates its commitment to culture as a fundamental component of international relations and a tool for fostering mutual understanding. He noted that the fair serves as a strategic venue for showcasing UAE's cultural achievements and enhancing collaborative opportunities in publishing, translation, and knowledge production.
The UAE's central theme, "Al Bait Al Emarat" (The Emirati House), is coordinated by the UAE Embassy in China alongside the Ministry of Culture. The pavilion gathers cultural institutions, academic bodies, publishers, and creative organizations to present the nation's accomplishments in publishing, translation, and the creative economy.
Over 20 cultural and professional events are scheduled within the pavilion, including discussions on UAE-China cultural relations, the future of publishing and translation, creative industries, advanced technologies, intellectual property, and cultural exchange. Additionally, the pavilion features family activities, artistic performances, exhibitions, and professional networking opportunities.
The Beijing International Book Fair is recognized as one of the world's premier publishing events, attracting publishers, authors, and cultural institutions globally.