Tunis: Under the auspices of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the Sharjah Cultural Honouring Forum continued its influential journey across Arab cities, celebrating distinguished Tunisian writers in its 24th edition. Held in Carthage, Tunis, this event reinforced Sharjah's commitment to enhancing Arab culture by acknowledging the contributions of Ezzedine Madani, Dr Khaled Gharibi, Zakia Tanbari, and Dr Mustafa Kilani.
According to Emirates News Agency, the forum is a testament to the directives of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, aimed at recognising literary pioneers who have enriched Arab culture. This year's event marks the fifth occasion the forum has convened in Tunisia, having previously honoured numerous intellectuals. In total, 20 Tunisian writers and intellectuals have been celebrated for their invaluable contributions.
The ceremony, held at the House of Wisdom in Carthage, was attended by a distinguished gathering, including Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Owais, Chairman of the Sharjah Department of Culture, Dr Iman Al Salmi, UAE Ambassador to Tunisia, and Dr Tawfiq Qarira, representing the Tunisian Minister of Cultural Affairs. The event commenced with a documentary showcasing Sharjah's pivotal role in fostering Arab creativity and highlighted the honorees' significant literary milestones.
Dr Hatem Al-Fatnasi moderated the event, underscoring Sharjah's dedication to supporting Arab culture through initiatives like the Sharjah Cultural Awards. Abdullah Al Owais expressed his joy at the cultural assembly, emphasizing the forum's status as a beacon in the Arab cultural landscape and a platform for honoring those who have made creativity a mission.
Al Owais celebrated the honorees for their dedication to enriching Arab culture, noting Tunisia's cultural heritage as a cornerstone of Arabic literature. He praised the collaboration between Sharjah's Department of Culture and the Tunisian Ministry of Cultural Affairs, highlighting the enduring relationship between the UAE and Tunisia.
Conveying the congratulations of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, Al Owais extended best wishes to the honorees for their continued success. Tunisian Minister of Culture Amina Srarfi, represented by Dr Tawfiq Qarira, expressed gratitude for Sharjah's recognition of Tunisian intellectuals and praised the forum for its wise selection of honorees based on their cultural influence and engagement.
Srarfi highlighted the honorees' ability to blend academic pursuits with cultural contributions, noting Tunisia's educational foundations in nurturing cultural movements. She lauded the honorees for their representation of Tunisian culture, drawn from knowledge and heritage, and their commitment to cultural action.
The Tunisian Minister of Culture extended her appreciation to Sharjah for its cultural patronage, fostering Tunisian-Emirati friendship. The honorees acknowledged Sharjah's role as a cultural landmark and expressed their gratitude for the recognition, viewing it as a culmination of their creative endeavors.