Watch: Sharjah showcases Emirati culture in Greece
Sharjah named first Arab Guest of Honour at Thessaloniki International Book Fair
Sharjah: Emirati culture takes centre stage in Greece as Thessaloniki opens its 20th international book fair celebrating Sharjah as Guest of Honour.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA): “We are the proud descendants who cherish the knowledge and understanding they fostered”. This sentiment captures the essence of Sharjah's pivotal role as the first Arab Guest of Honour at the 20th Thessaloniki International Book Fair (TIBF), and is a testament to the enduring bond between Greece and the Arab world.
As TIBF’s biggest edition yet gets underway, hosting 850 exhibitors, more than 1,500 Greek and foreign authors, speakers and book professionals from 40 countries in over 500 events, Bodour Al Qasimi emphasised the importance of reading to boost intercultural understanding with a simple yet effective example.
“Our presence here today as the guest of honour is an invitation for you to have a window into Sharjah and the United Arab Emirates”, she further noted, extending the audience a warm invitation to explore the events, exhibits and other offerings for a “glimpse into the heart of Sharjah,” she added.
Following the official opening of TIBF, Al Qasimi unveiled the Sharjah Pavilion, marking the commencement of the emirate's participation as the Guest of Honour of the 20th edition. The pavilion received Dr. Ali Obaid Al Dhaheri, the UAE Ambassador to Greece, who was briefed on the exhibits, including books by His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, works by Emirati authors, as well as heritage displays and artefacts showcasing the beauty of Emirati heritage.