Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi Enhances UAE-Cultural Ties with Visits to Slovakia, Hungary, and Croatia
Abu Dhabi [UAE], July 26: Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, the UAE Minister of Culture, has undertaken a significant diplomatic tour through the Slovak Republic, the Republic of Hungary, and the Republic of Croatia. This visit, aimed at strengthening cultural ties and fostering mutual understanding, involved a series of high-level meetings and cultural engagements with leaders and institutions in each of these countries.
Strengthening Cultural Diplomacy
During his visit, Sheikh Salem Al Qassimi highlighted the importance of cultural diplomacy in bridging gaps between nations and promoting global dialogue. “These meetings and cultural engagements represent significant strides in our cultural diplomacy efforts,” he remarked. “The UAE Ministry of Culture is committed to boosting partnerships and promoting global cultural dialogue.”
Sheikh Al Qassimi emphasized that the engagements with the Culture Ministers of Slovakia, Hungary, and Croatia underscore a shared commitment to using culture as a vehicle for diversity, peace, and socioeconomic development. The signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with these countries is intended to enhance the bonds of friendship and understanding while preserving collective cultural heritage for future generations.
Visit to Slovakia: A Deep Dive into Cultural Collaboration
In the Slovak Republic, Sheikh Salem Al Qassimi, accompanied by a delegation from the UAE Ministry of Culture, met with Martina Simkovicova, the Minister of Culture of Slovakia. The discussions focused on enhancing cultural exchanges and collaboration between the two nations.
A highlight of the visit was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the UAE and Slovak Culture Ministries. This MoU represents a mutual commitment to fostering cultural cooperation and preserving shared cultural heritage. The visit also included a tour of the University Library of Bratislava, where the UAE delegation explored Basagic’s Collection of Islamic Manuscripts. This collection features centuries-old manuscripts and essential works of medieval Islamic scholarly literature.
Additionally, Sheikh Al Qassimi met with Robert Kalinak, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of Slovakia. The visit concluded with a tour of Cerveny Kamen Castle and a falconry demonstration, a shared cultural heritage of the UAE and Slovakia. Notably, falconry was inscribed on UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2021 through collaborative efforts from 24 countries.
Engagements in Hungary: Exploring Cultural Diplomacy and Innovation
In Hungary, Sheikh Salem Al Qassimi engaged with Balazs Hanko, the Minister of Culture and Innovation. Their discussions centered on potential collaborations in cultural diplomacy and innovation. Sheikh Al Qassimi also extended congratulations to Hungary on its 2024 Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
The UAE delegation visited the Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music, a cornerstone of Hungary’s musical education and performance art heritage. They also toured the Museum of Fine Arts, gaining insights into Hungary’s vibrant history and artistic achievements. This visit underscored the UAE’s interest in fostering deeper cultural connections and exploring innovative approaches to cultural diplomacy.
Exploration in Croatia: Expanding Collaborative Efforts
The tour concluded with a visit to the Republic of Croatia, where Sheikh Salem Al Qassimi met with Nina Obuljen Korzinek, the Minister of Culture and Media of Croatia. The discussions focused on expanding collaborative efforts in cultural diplomacy, with an emphasis on learning about each other’s culture and preserving shared cultural heritage.
During the visit, the UAE delegation explored the Museum of Contemporary Art, which showcases Croatia’s rich artistic traditions and contributions to the global cultural landscape. This visit highlighted the UAE’s commitment to understanding and appreciating the diverse cultural heritage of its international partners.
Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi’s tour through Slovakia, Hungary, and Croatia marks a significant effort in enhancing cultural diplomacy and fostering mutual understanding between the UAE and these European nations. Through high-level meetings, cultural exchanges, and collaborative agreements, the UAE is reinforcing its commitment to global cultural dialogue and the preservation of shared cultural heritage. The visits underscore the UAE’s role in promoting international cultural cooperation and building lasting relationships with its global partners.