KUWAIT CITY, May 6: Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to Kuwait, Dr. Matar Al-Neyadi has stressed that culture is a bridge connecting peoples and a platform that expresses the identity and spirit of nations. In his speech at the Sheikh Jaber Cultural Center during the launching of the ‘Emirati Cultural Nights in Kuwait’, organized by the UAE Embassy in Kuwait in cooperation with the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL); Al-Neyadi affirmed the vision of the UAE that culture is a permanent bridge for dialogue, rapprochement and understanding, and a tool for promoting peace, building conscious societies, and consolidating identities. Undersecretary of the UAE Ministry of Culture Mubarak Al-Nakhi attended the event, with the theme, “Immortalizing the Legacy... and Leading the Future”.

Al-Neyadi said the ‘Emirati Cultural Nights in Kuwait’ take on a special dimension, as they coincide with the selection of the sisterly State of Kuwait as the Capital of Arab Culture for 2025. “This well-deserved selection refl ects the country’s distinguished position on the Arab cultural map; considering its literary, theatrical and artistic achievements, and its pioneering role in establishing the cultural movement in the Gulf and the Arab world,” he stressed. He added the ‘Emirati Cultural Nights in Kuwait’ is an open invitation to discover the spirit of the UAE and learn about its cultural components that pulsate with generosity, tolerance, coexistence, love and affection -- a manifestation of the creative convergence of heritage and modernity. He disclosed that the event will continue for three days at three locations: Sheikh Jaber Cultural Center, The Avenues Mall and Dasma Theater. He also praised the efforts of NCCAL in organizing the event, which is being held for the first time in Kuwait. He stated that the event is a celebration of the shared roots between the two sisterly countries -- the UAE and Kuwait, “by reviving ancient heritage and drawing inspiration from the authenticity of the past, the distinction of the present, and the ambition of the future.”

Meanwhile, NCCAL Secretary General Dr. Mohammad Khaled Al-Jassar pointed out “Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates have long been linked by strong fraternal relations, strengthened by kinship ties, a shared language and religion, and common interests. These relations are not limited to the political aspect; but extend to various social, economic and cultural fields, making them a model to be emulated in terms of Gulf and Arab cooperation.” He considers the ‘Emirati Cultural Nights in Kuwait’ activities a celebration of the Emirati cultural heritage in Kuwait and a shared success story in supporting the cultural movement, exchanging expertise, and enriching the literary and artistic scenes in both countries.

He confirmed that the past years witnessed continuous cooperation between cultural institutions in Kuwait and the UAE through the organization of cultural weeks, exchanging artistic and theatrical group performances, and holding joint exhibitions and intellectual forums. He said the ‘Emirati Cultural Nights in Kuwait’ are a new addition to a series of fruitful partnerships aimed at enhancing cultural exchange and transferring experiences and creativity among the youths and intellectuals. “These events also provide the Kuwaiti public with the opportunity to learn about the rich Emirati heritage, its values and artistic and creative practices that reflect the Arab and Gulf identity,” he asserted. He thanked the Emirati delegation and all the organizers and supporters of the event wishing everyone has a time rich in communication, knowledge and enjoyment of the arts and culture on display

By Inaas Awadh Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff