Sharjah Ruler champions Arabic Language at intl conference

This statement was made during His Highness's participation in the inaugural session of the First Sharjah International Conference on Arabic Language Studies in Europe, which took place on Sunday. The conference, organised by the Arabic Language Academy in Sharjah, brought together a significant number of scholars, orientalists, and Arabists from various European countries.

His Highness extended a warm welcome to the conference's attendees, comprising scholars and Arabic language professors from different countries, emphasising that in Sharjah, the Arabic language receives comprehensive attention, from teaching and protection to its inclusion in an authoritative dictionary.

His Highness also discussed the concept of the historical dictionary of the Arabic language, a project involving 500 specialists and language scholars. He underscored the continuous initiatives to preserve the Arabic language through various distinguished projects, such as conferences and more. His Highness mentioned, "Five years ago, we commenced the project for the historical dictionary of the Arabic language. By this time next year, we aim to have completed 110 volumes, each containing 750 pages. The dictionary goes beyond defining words; it provides historical context and knowledge, serving the needs of those interested in exploring the language's history and its usage throughout time. Inshallah, once the dictionary project is completed, we will initiate another project of equal importance. We consistently support the Arabic language with projects aimed at safeguarding it from decline. Our goal is to reach Arabic language enthusiasts and eager learners, whether they are in Africa, Asia, or Europe. However, having all the language enthusiasts gathered here in Sharjah is a significant achievement in preserving this language."

In conclusion of his speech, the ruler of Sharjah stressed the significance of taking care of the Arabic language in various aspects, which are interconnected through multiple stages aimed at its preservation and dissemination, with the support of institutions. He emphasised that the Arabic language doesn't just need preservation but also active usage, which requires teaching. The ruler pledged support, both intellectual and financial, to organisations and individuals working towards the advancement of the Arabic language, whether they are involved in libraries, universities, or other fields. He assured them that they would have assistance in their efforts to promote and preserve the language.

At the conference's commencement, Dr. Mohamed Safi Al Mosteghanemi, Secretary-General of the Arabic Language Academy (ALA), extended a warm welcome to the participants in this unique conference dedicated to the study of the Arabic language in Europe. He spoke about the conference's objectives, which revolve around supporting, teaching, and fostering the Arabic language in different European nations. He also discussed the challenges the language faces and offered well-wishes to all the participants.

Anastasia Ostrokhova, a media representative from the Russian Federation, delivered remarks on behalf of the conference's guests, expressing deep gratitude to the ruler of Sharjah for his unwavering support of the Arabic language and its scholars worldwide. She lauded his personal involvement in the education of students and his encouragement and financial backing for their studies, both in their home countries and in Sharjah.

In her speech, Anastasia praised the significant role that the Emirate of Sharjah plays in all matters related to the Arabic language and knowledge, underscoring its elevated status in the fields of culture and knowledge.

The ruler of Sharjah and the conference attendees then participated in the first conference session titled "The Status of the Arabic Language in Poland, Kazakhstan, and Italy," presided over by Dr. Abdullah Al-Washmi, Secretary-General of “King Salman Global Academy for the Arabic Language.

Dr. Barbara Mikalak from Poland presented the initial paper, "A Century of Arabic Language Studies and Literature at Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Poland." Her presentation delved into the initial interest in the Arabic language in Europe and Poland, largely driven by the geographical expansion of the Arab world and the travels of explorers. She also highlighted the notable Polish Orientalists who displayed a strong passion for the Arabic language and made significant contributions, including the authorship of numerous books on the subject.
Dr. Francesca Quaro from Italy wrapped up the session with her presentation titled "Translating and Teaching Arabic Poetry in Italy." She delved into the historical introduction of the Arabic language to Sicily during the third century of the Hijri calendar. This was marked by the commencement of Arabic language instruction as Arab intellectuals settled in the region. She also shared her experiences working with Italian poets who have an affinity for the Arabic language, translating Arabic poetry into Italian, and arranging numerous literary gatherings.

The conference, occurring on October 29th and 30th, seeks to illuminate the status of the Arabic language in European countries and evaluate the linguistic presence of the Arab community within these nations. It also aims to scrutinise the research and studies conducted by experts in Arabic language and literature, aligning with the mission of the Arabic Language Academy in Sharjah, which supports research efforts in this field.

The conference boasts over 22 participants from 11 European countries, including Italy, Poland, Germany, Spain, France, Kazakhstan, Russia, Turkey, Austria, and Denmark.

The conference's objectives include an assessment of the Arabic language's standing in European countries, a diagnosis of the current state of Arab culture in these nations, and the establishment of channels for intellectual cooperation and cultural exchange between the Arabic Language Academy and international institutions and global centres dedicated to Arabic language education and linguistic studies.

The second day of the conference consists of three sessions. The first session, titled "Teaching Arabic in France, Kazakhstan, Germany, and Spain," is led by Dr. Bahaa Eddin Dandis, a researcher at the Arabic Language Academy in Sharjah. It features contributions from Dr. Mohammed Bakhoosh from France, Dr. Yerkenbay Shokai from Kazakhstan, Dr. Sebastian Gunter from Germany, and Dr. Abdelhadi Saadoun from Spain.

The second session examines the "Status of Arabic Studies in Kazakhstan, Turkey, and Italy," with Dr. Abdelfattah El Hajmar as the moderator. It includes inputs from Dr. Samal Toleubayeva from Kazakhstan, Dr. Mohammed Haqi Sutchin from Turkey, and Dr. Aqeel Marai and Dr. Giuliano Mion from Italy.

The conference concludes with the third session, titled "Status of Arabic Studies in Austria, Denmark, Russia, and Italy," moderated by Rasha Ojhaein, the head of the Arabic Language Centre at the Arabic Language Academy in Sharjah. It features the participation of Dr. Umut Foral from Austria, Dr. Fatima Agbaria from Denmark, Dr. Anastasia Oustrokhova from Russia, and Dr. Alessandra Persicetti from Italy.

The opening ceremony of the conference was attended by His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, along with various officials, including Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Owais, Chairman of the Sharjah Department of Culture, Dr. Khalifa Musabah Al Tunaiji, President of the Holy Quran Academy (HQA), Dr. Khawla Abdulrahman Al Mulla, the Chairperson of the Family Affairs Authority, Jamal Salem Al-Tarifi, President of Al Qasimia University, Abdullah Khalifa Al Sabousi, Head of the Department of Islamic Affairs in Sharjah, Khalid Bin Butti Al Hajri, Director General of Sharjah University City, and Mohammed Hassan Khalaf, Director-General of the Sharjah Broadcasting Authority (SBA). Representatives of language associations and councils, as well as various officials and specialists, were also in attendance.