At Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival. Image: Provided by Sharjah Book Authority
By Dennis Abrams | @DennisAbrams2
‘Strengthening Cultural Ties’
As reported in the United Arab Emirates by the Gulf News, the National Library of Serbia and Sharjah Book Authority have signed an agreement to collaborate on literary and other cultural initiatives.
The agreement, inked during last week’s Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival, is described as being designed to highlight both cultures’ literary and artistic products at exhibitions, book fairs, festivals, presentations, conferences, seminars, and other promotional events.
The results of the arrangement, say organizers, should be particularly visible during the Belgrade International Book Fair, scheduled for October 22 to 29, and the Sharjah International Book Fair, November 1 to 11.
In statements provided to the press, Laslo Blašković, director of Serbia’s national library, is quoted, saying, that the Sharjah Book Authority “shares our commitment to disseminate knowledge and culture, and is equally passionate about promoting reading in its community.
“With the signing of this [agreement], we look forward to strengthening cultural ties with the UAE. Furthermore, the agreement will facilitate an array of collaborative events, as well as our joint efforts to meet the needs and interests of readers in both nations. We look forward to participating in Sharjah’s book fairs in a big way, and also welcome them to our future literary projects.”
Speaking for Sharjah Book Authority, its chairman Ahmed Al Ameri is quoted, saying, “At Sharjah Book Authority, our constant endeavor is to forge strong cultural relationships with the world, facilitating the free transmission and receival of literary and artistic wealth.
“This significant collaboration is in line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, member of the supreme council and ruler of Sharjah. We’re delighted to have established a strong partnership with Serbia—a nation steeped in history and an impressive literary heritage.”
Established in 1832, the National Library of Serbia is said to have been among the first in Europe (in 2003) to begin digital scanning of its holdings.
The complete report from Gulf News is here.