Cairo: Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, the 25th edition of the Sharjah Cultural Forum was inaugurated in Cairo, honouring four prominent Egyptian writers. The event recognized the contributions of novelist and short story writer Sayed Negm, critic Dr. Abdel Hakim Radi, critic and novelist Dr. Camelia Abdel Fattah, and short story writer Mohsen Younis.
According to Emirates News Agency, the forum, which aims to honor literary figures who have significantly contributed to Arab culture, was held at the headquarters of the Supreme Council of Culture in Cairo. This marks the seventh occasion the forum has been hosted in Egypt, where it previously celebrated various Egyptian creative figures in its earlier editions.
The ceremony was attended by Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Owais, Head of the Department of Culture in Sharjah; Mohammed Ibrahim Al Qasir, Director of the Department of Cultural Affairs; Professor Ashraf Al-Azzazi, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Culture in Egypt; Talal Abdullah, representative of the UAE Embassy in Egypt; alongside numerous Egyptian and Arab writers, thinkers, and intellectuals.
Al Owais, in his address, recalled the beginnings of the Sharjah Cultural Honouring Forum, highlighting that Egypt hosted the first edition before its journey across the Arab world. He expressed delight at the forum returning to Egypt for its 25th edition, emphasizing its role as a platform for celebrating thought and creativity and honoring literary figures dedicated to enriching Arab culture.
The ceremony was a dedication to honoring Egyptian writers and intellectuals who have made significant contributions to Arab culture. Al Owais noted that this recognition is a testament to Egypt's rich cultural heritage and the enduring influence of its writers and intellectuals on Arabic literature and culture.
Dr. Ashraf Al-Azzazi remarked on the forum's initiative, acknowledging the Ruler of Sharjah's patronage. He highlighted the forum's role in honoring intellectual and cultural figures across the Arab world, serving as both a tribute and motivation for continued contributions to the cultural scene.
The event also included a documentary presentation of the forum's history and an exhibition featuring publications from the Sharjah Department of Culture, allowing attendees to explore and acquire a variety of literary works.