Beijing: The UAE today launched its participation as Guest of Honour at the 32nd Beijing International Book Fair, being held at the China National Convention Centre in the Chinese capital from 17th to 21st June. The participation is jointly organised by the UAE Embassy in Beijing and the Ministry of Culture, under the theme 'Society and People,' reflecting the country's vision of placing people at the heart of the cultural experience and underscoring the depth of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the UAE and the People's Republic of China.
According to Emirates News Agency, Hussain bin Ibrahim Al Hammadi, UAE Ambassador to the People's Republic of China, inaugurated the country's flagship pavilion, the 'UAE House,' in the presence of Mubarak Al Nakhi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Culture, alongside a number of Emirati and Chinese officials. During a tour of the UAE pavilion, Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qasimi, Minister of Culture, highlighted the significance of knowledge as a strategic resource and a key driver of development and competitiveness.
He stated that the UAE is committed to developing an integrated knowledge ecosystem that supports creativity and innovation, providing an environment conducive to the production and circulation of content at both regional and international levels. Such efforts contribute to strengthening national identity, safeguarding cultural heritage, and reinforcing its presence on the global cultural stage.
The minister elaborated that book fairs have evolved into global spaces for the exchange of ideas, transcending their original purpose of showcasing publications. From this perspective, the UAE's participation in the Beijing International Book Fair offers a platform to highlight the national experience in building an advanced cultural and knowledge sector, showcase the national identity, and strengthen the country's presence in international dialogues on the future of culture and the knowledge economy.
Sheikh Salem affirmed that the UAE continues to develop its cultural policies and initiatives to position culture and knowledge among national development priorities, enhance the cultural sector's contribution to the national economy, improve quality of life, and support a society capable of innovation and knowledge production while preserving national identity.
Ambassador Hussain bin Ibrahim Al Hammadi remarked that the UAE's participation as Guest of Honour represents a significant milestone in UAE-China relations. He noted that the participation reflects both countries' belief in the pivotal role of culture and knowledge in fostering closer ties and new avenues for humanitarian and creative cooperation. It underscores the UAE's vision of strengthening its global cultural presence and promoting intellectual and literary exchange with diverse cultures and civilisations.
The ambassador added that the UAE's selection as Guest of Honour is the culmination of sustained cultural and diplomatic efforts led by the UAE Embassy in Beijing in cooperation with Chinese partners over recent years. This participation builds on successes achieved through joint cultural and literary events and initiatives promoting dialogue and knowledge exchange, enhancing the visibility of Emirati culture and opening new cooperation opportunities between cultural institutions in both countries.
Ambassador Al Hammadi also emphasized the UAE's vision that regards culture, knowledge, and creativity as key pillars of sustainable development and the economy of the future. He noted that cultural and creative industries have become drivers of economic and social development, serving as sources of innovation and knowledge production. The UAE continues to support creators, publishers, and content producers, consolidating its position as a global platform for creativity and cultural exchange.