Sultan wins excellence award at London International Book Fair
london — His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, emphasised on the emirate’s role as a leading symbol for culture, literature and heritage across the UAE and the Arab region, and as a hub for fine arts and true cultural values.
He asserted his pride on Sharjah’s ability to create its very own cultural identity, perfectly balancing its Islamic roots and the emirate’s historical heritage.
Dr Sheikh Sultan delivered an acceptance speech on Tuesday, in the presence of Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, founder and CEO of Kalimat Group, at the London Book Fair’s (LBF) 3rd International Excellence Awards 2017 ceremony, where he received the Simon Master Chairman’s Award for his scientific achievements and cultural efforts.
“History has proved time and time again that culture is essential in a human dialogue, regardless of race, religion or geography,” said Dr Sheikh Sultan at the beginning of the speech.
“This thirst for knowledge and desire to experience new traditions creates a global bond which has the potential to have a much greater effect than new cities or military power. The true drive of civilisation is based on the spirit of its people and the love of their culture. In the past, military leaders have written the world’s history through ever-increasing hatred and everdecreasing humanity, whereas poets and authors write history with the purity of an artist,” he added.
The ceremony was inaugurated by an opening address by Jacks Thomas, Director of the LBF, in which she underlined that the prestigious Simon Master Chairman’s Award is granted to the most influential persons in global publishing, for their accomplishments and ongoing efforts serving culture. She illustrated the award’s objectives, which seek to extend cultural bridges and unite nations of all languages, traditions and cultures through books. She added that Dr Sultan deserves this award, as he was responsible for developing Sharjah’s cultural sphere.