More respect for culture is key message from summit in Abu Dhabi
The power of culture to transform societies has been a key message from the Culture Summit Abu Dhabi, which concludes at Manarat Al Saadiyat today.
The event has brought together thought leaders from various fields, including government, the arts, heritage, film and music.
In his keynote speech, Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi, reaffirmed the summit’s mission to elevate the importance of culture in policy circles.
“In today’s world, we need culture more than ever as it allows us to understand each other a little bit more,” he said. “Once we get to this level, then we are in a world of understanding where dialogue will solve issues and nothing else.
“We’ll return to the days of intellectual thought of understanding each other’s backgrounds, our pasts and our present equally.”
Mubarak outlined part of his department’s expansive strategy in creating a thriving creative economy in the emirate, while elevating the role of culture on the world stage. For the latter, he pointed to last month’s Unesco World Conference on Culture and Arts Education in Abu Dhabi, which brought 190 ministers of education and culture together in order to create a new international framework.
“Our cultural and creative industry strategy aims to increase the socio-economic impact and value of the cultural and creative industries in Abu Dhabi,” he said.
“But it really doesn’t stop there. We’re not just looking within, we’re also looking outwards. In the last decade, we have forged alliances, partnerships with global players to address the importance of culture.
“Our strategic investments in capacity building, cultural institution development, knowledge sharing, public engagement are testament to our belief in the power of culture education to inspire creativity, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of our shared humanity.”
Mubarak urged delegates to harness the connections made from the conference to create meaningful change
“These are not just words. Our job is to make sure we find platforms and other solutions to be a positive voice for our youth,” he said. “They will be the catalyst to make sure all of our actions and all of our fruits bear.”