Session explores role of cultural diversity
MUSCAT: The Cultural Committee of the Muscat International Book Fair organised a dialogue session titled "Cultural Diversity and Identity" as part of Fair's activities.
The session highlighted Oman's cultural heritage and its role in solidifying national identity and fostering a sense of belonging.
The discussion, led by Dr Nader Kazem (a writer and former professor of cultural studies at the University of Bahrain), examined the significance of cultural diversity as a fundamental element in shaping a unifying national identity, as well as strategies to preserve it amid rapid regional and global changes. Dr Kazem emphasised that multiculturalism and the coexistence of diverse identities within a single society require high levels of tolerance, acceptance, and respect for others — a theme that has persisted throughout history but gains new relevance in the context of modern nations. Dr Kazem noted that globalisation, emerging decades ago, has increased interconnectivity among societies, influencing local cultural distinctiveness and giving rise to standardized global cultural patterns in areas such as architecture, cuisine and fashion.
The session spotlighted Oman's pioneering experience in cultural pluralism and peaceful coexistence, showcasing tangible examples from its cultural, artistic and literary heritage as key contributors to national identity. — ONA
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Observer
2 days ago
- Observer
Shabab Oman II, anchors at port of Civitavecchia in Italy
CIVITAVECCHIA: The Royal Navy of Oman's (RNO) vessel, Shabab Oman II, on Wednesday anchored at the Port of Civitavecchia in Italy. This was part of her seventh international voyage to Europe dubbed Glories of the Seas during which the ship would call at several stations and ports. Upon arrival at the port of Civitavecchia, Shabab Oman II was welcomed by HH Sayyid Nizar bin al Julanda al Said, Ambassador of the Sultanate of Oman to the Italian Republic. — ONA
Observer
3 days ago
- Observer
Omani Ambassador presents credentials to Prince of Monaco
MONACO: Prince Albert II of Monaco received Ambassador Ahmed bin Mohammed al Araimi at the Royal Palace in Monaco, who presented his credentials as the Sultanate of Oman's Non-Resident Ambassador to the Principality of Monaco. During the audience, the ambassador conveyed the greetings of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik to Prince Albert II, along with His Majesty's best wishes of good health and happiness for the Prince and further progress and prosperity for the people of Monaco. In return, the Prince asked the ambassador to convey his greetings to His Majesty the Sultan and his wishes for continued progress and prosperity for the Omani people. - ONA
Observer
4 days ago
- Observer
Oman, Mexico celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations
MUSCAT: The Sultanate of Oman and the United Mexican States celebrated the 50th anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations between them, unveiling a commemorative emblem symbolising the advanced ties between the two friendly nations. This took place during a ceremony held at the Foreign Ministry in Muscat on Tuesday. Shaikh Khalifa bin Ali al Harthy, Under-Secretary of the Foreign Ministry for Political Affairs, commended the bilateral relations and cooperation between the two countries, noting that diplomatic relations began on July 31, 1985. He emphasised that this step has contributed to strengthening cooperation in various fields, including political, economic and cultural spheres. He expressed Oman's aspiration to further develop fruitful relations with Mexico across multiple domains, underscoring the shared values that unite the two nations and their mutual commitment to building a partnership based on respect and understanding. On his turn, Aníbal Gómez Toledo, Mexico's Ambassador to Oman, praised the distinguished bilateral relations between Oman and Mexico, affirming his government's keenness to enhance all aspects that elevate bilateral ties to wider horizons in all fields. He also lauded Oman's diplomatic efforts in resolving numerous regional and international issues, as well as its steadfast commitment to promoting peace and stability in the region and building bridges between conflicting parties through dialogue, tolerance and respect. He stressed that Oman serves as a model for mediation and peaceful conflict resolution. He expressed the profound gratitude and appreciation of the Mexican government and people to the Sultanate of Oman for its noble humanitarian efforts in securing the release of the crew of the Galaxy Leader ship, particularly the Mexican citizens, enabling their return to their families. He affirmed that celebrating 50 years of diplomatic relations between the two friendly nations presents a unique opportunity to set new and ambitious goals that enhance cooperation, increase trade volume, promote tourism and strengthen academic exchanges through university scholarships, joint scientific research initiatives and other fields. A joint statement stated that Oman and Mexico celebrated five decades of productive and friendly relations across various sectors, noting that political consultations, economic and trade exchanges, and cultural cooperation have deepened mutual understanding and strengthened collaboration. The two nations reaffirmed their commitment to deepening and expanding their bilateral relationship, expressing their determination to enhance cooperation based on shared interests and to continue working together for the lasting benefit of their peoples. The ceremony was attended by several officials from both the Omani and Mexican sides. - ONA
