Portuguese press hails cultural initiatives of Sharjah Ruler

The Portuguese press, as well as European and Arab academic and cultural circles, praised His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah's gift of the Barbosa manuscript to the Joanina Library. His Highness used this complete copy to edit and translate his book, "A Momentous Journey." The press described the event as a strategic step that strengthens cultural dialogue between Arab and Portuguese civilizations.

Major Portuguese newspapers and news websites praised the pioneering role of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah in supporting knowledge and scientific research and establishing bridges of cultural communication between peoples, stressing that Sharjah's efforts reflect the emirate's vision of making Arab culture an active part of the European academic landscape.

Media interaction

A recent report from the newspaper "Diario Aç Pieras" praised the Ruler of Sharjah for his significant support of the Joanina Library's digitization project. This initiative offers researchers and the general public access to over 30,000 rare books and manuscripts. The project is the result of a seven-year collaboration between the University of Coimbra and the Sharjah Book Authority.

Another local newspaper, Diario de Coimbra, highlighted Sharjah's efforts in Portugal, describing the occasion as an important moment in the history of the University of Coimbra. They mentioned that these efforts demonstrate a blending of two cultures that share a rich heritage.

The newspaper Público also focused on the growing relationship between the University of Coimbra and Sharjah. They reported that this partnership has led to the creation of a new Center for Arabic Studies in Portugal. This center will provide courses in Arabic language and literature and host various educational activities, helping to foster a deeper cultural understanding between the two regions.

Additionally, Jornal O Despertar announced the establishment of a new cultural center at the University of Coimbra, which will focus on engaging with Arab culture, coinciding with the launch of the Joanina Digital Library. This single event intertwines history, heritage, and knowledge.

Finally, Jornal i explored the cultural significance of this project, suggesting it serves as a global example of how to cooperate in preserving our shared human heritage and promoting communication between Eastern and Western cultures.

International and Arab recognition

The opening of a new cultural center in Sharjah received wide coverage from the media, not just in Portugal but across the Arab world. Major newspapers, websites, and TV and radio stations from countries like Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Iraq, and Morocco all celebrated this event.

Internationally, the center also attracted attention from the press in countries like South Korea, Pakistan, Canada, Turkey, and Australia. Many of these outlets noted that this new center builds on Sharjah's previous cultural projects in Milan, further solidifying its reputation as the World Capital of Arab Culture.

Journalists around the globe agreed that this initiative represents a new approach to cultural diplomacy, highlighting how Arab culture can positively influence relations between the East and West. Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, the CEO of the Sharjah Book Authority, explained that the vision of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, along with the support of Her Highness Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority, has played a key role in shaping these cultural efforts.

These initiatives show a strong dedication to culture and humanity, gaining recognition from media outlets and global cultural leaders. Sharjah has truly become a hub for cultural diplomacy, focusing on the importance of knowledge, open dialogue, and mutual respect. The Ruler of Sharjah is helping to place Arab culture in the spotlight, emphasizing its role in building shared human values through literature and knowledge.

Continuous vision for human dialogue

The Center for Arabic Studies at the University of Coimbra embodies a vision that His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah has promoted for many years. This vision focuses on using shared culture, language, and knowledge to bring people together and strengthen peace and cultural understanding.

The strong interest from Portuguese media in this center highlights Sharjah’s role as a vibrant cultural link between the Arab world and Europe. It serves as proof of the success in turning knowledge into a universal language that crosses borders and connects people, regardless of their geography or politics.