Sharjah Ruler receives Simon Master Chairmans Award at London Book Fair

UAE CULTURE

LONDON, 15th March, 2017 (WAM) -- H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has been awarded the Simon Master Chairmans Award, in recognition of his scientific achievements, cultural efforts and other accomplishments.

Sharjah is a leading symbol of culture, literature and heritage across the UAE and the Arab region, as well as a hub for fine arts and cultural values, said H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan Al Qasimi.

He was speaking in the presence of Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, Founder and CEO of Kalimat Group, at the 3rd International Excellence Awards 2017 ceremony of the London Book Fair (LBF), where H.H. received the Simon Master Chairmans Award.

"Let me start by saying what a great honour and pleasure it is to accept the Simon Master Chairmans Award. History has proven time and time again that culture is essential for human dialogue and understanding, regardless of race, religion or geography," the Ruler of Sharjah said.

"This thirst for knowledge and the desire to experience new traditions creates a global bond which has the potential to have a greater impact than the new cities or military power. The true drive of a civilisation is based on the spirit of its people and the love for their culture. In the past, military leaders have written the worlds history through ever-increasing hatred and ever-decreasing humanity, whereas poets and authors write history with the purity of an artist," he added.

"We are proud to say that Sharjah is a symbol of culture, intellect and heritage in the United Arab Emirates and the Arab region, known for its leading role as a patron of fine arts which has instilled true cultural values. We are proud of our ability to create a cultural identity perfectly balanced between our Islamic roots and historical heritage," Sheikh Sultan Al Qasimi said.

"Sharjah will continue its efforts to strengthen international ties through global cultural collaborations," the Ruler of Sharjah concluded.

In her opening address at the ceremony, Director of LBF Jacks Thomas underlined that the prestigious Simon Master Chairmans Award was granted to the most influential persons in global publishing, in recognition of their remarkable accomplishments and ongoing efforts to serve culture. Sheikh Sultan deserves this award, because, throughout the three decades of his leadership, he was able to develop the cultural sphere of his emirate, and transformed it into a scientific, cultural and literary platform, she noted.

Sheikh Sultan has been supporting the culture and intellectuals of all the Arab countries, and promoted the treasures of Arab and Islamic culture through his participation in many global cultural events, she noted.