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Kuwait Times
26-05-2025
- Politics
- Kuwait Times
Forum highlights cultural dialogue
KUWAIT: The international forum titled 'Classical Arabic Thought in Contemporary Global Research' commenced on Monday at the Yarmouk Cultural Center, marking a significant cultural milestone. The event is jointly organized by the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL), the French Center for Research in the Arabian Peninsula (CERAP), and Dar Al-Athar Al-Islamiyyah. In her opening remarks, NCCAL's Assistant Secretary General for Culture Aisha Al-Mahmoud described the forum as a 'milestone' in Kuwait's ongoing celebration as the Arab Capital of Culture and Media for 2025. She noted that the event sheds light on the evolving landscape of classical Arabic thought and its renewed relevance in contemporary academic research. Al-Mahmoud emphasized that recent years have witnessed a 'qualitative renaissance' in the study of Arab intellectual heritage, pointing to the adoption of modern analytical methodologies that explore both the historical and social contexts of classical texts. She added that the forum brings together a diverse group of scholars from leading Arab and international institutions, promoting dialogue and academic cooperation in the fields of philosophy and intellectual studies. Expressing gratitude to all participating institutions, Al-Mahmoud affirmed that such events reinforce Kuwait's cultural presence regionally and globally, while bolstering scientific research in heritage and knowledge. French Ambassador to Kuwait Olivier Gauvin also addressed the gathering, underlining the importance of cultural and academic collaboration between Kuwait and France. He praised the existing partnership between NCCAL and CERAP, and highlighted the role of joint initiatives in preserving Islamic heritage and fostering mutual understanding. Aisha Al Mahmoud Dr Pierre Kay Dr Makram Abbas French Ambassador to Kuwait Olivier Gauvin Gauvin described the forum as a pivotal moment in Franco-Kuwaiti relations and referenced the French Institute for Islamic Studies—established by the French Presidency—as part of France's broader efforts to deepen understanding of Islamic culture. He noted that the conference supports this vision by convening prominent experts in manuscript preservation and philosophical research. The ambassador also drew attention to the vast corpus of Arabic manuscripts housed in European institutions, including over 7,000 in the French National Library alone. He lauded the researchers contributing to the cataloguing and analysis of these works, emphasizing the significance of preservation efforts for this shared intellectual legacy. Highlighting Kuwait's longstanding role in cultural dialogue, Gauvin noted the country's pioneering stance in supporting critical thought and cross-cultural exchange—particularly in light of its 2025 designation as the Arab Capital of Culture and Media. Dr Pierre Cayle, Director of the French Institute for Islamic Studies, echoed these sentiments, stressing the role of joint academic endeavors in renewing knowledge and deepening intercultural understanding. He noted that research into classical texts opens new horizons and contributes to the preservation of a common human heritage. Also speaking at the event, Dr Makram Abbas, Director of CERAP, outlined the forum's key themes, which include the preservation of manuscripts, library collections, and critical heritage studies. He highlighted recent scholarly discoveries that have prompted a reassessment of traditional interpretations, offering new insights into Arab intellectual traditions. Dr Reem Al-Rudaini, the forum's host and Associate Professor of Islamic History at Kuwait University, pointed to the dynamism that has recently characterized research in classical Arabic thought. She noted that the breadth and diversity of scholarly work—spanning philosophy, science, literature, and beyond—represent a growing and significant phenomenon that merits comprehensive academic attention. The three-day conference features a series of scientific sessions dedicated to the indexing, investigation, and reinterpretation of key manuscripts and intellectual works within the broader context of Arab and Islamic civilization. — KUNA
Kuwait Times
19-05-2025
- Business
- Kuwait Times
NCCAL chief underlines Kuwait-EU cultural ties
KUWAIT: Secretary General of the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL) Mohammad Al-Jassar on Monday underscored the importance of cultural cooperation between Kuwait and the European Union, describing it as a cornerstone for strengthening bilateral ties across diverse sectors. Speaking to KUNA on the sidelines of the EU-Kuwait Culture Forum, Al-Jassar praised the 'fruitful and excellent' cultural relations between the two sides. The forum, held for the first time, was organized by the EU Delegation to Kuwait under the patronage of Minister of Information and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, in celebration of Kuwait's designation as the Arab Capital of Culture and Media for 2025. Al-Jassar noted the continued presence of EU archaeological teams working in Kuwait as a prime example of effective cooperation, emphasizing their contributions to unearthing and preserving the country's rich heritage. Secretary General of the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL) Mohammad Al-Jassar with Anne Koistinen, EU Ambassador to Kuwait. – KUNA photos EU-Kuwait Culture Forum. Secretary General of the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL) Mohammad Al-Jassar Anne Koistinen, EU Ambassador to Kuwait He also highlighted the growing number of Kuwaiti students pursuing higher education in European countries, acquiring valuable expertise to support national development efforts. In addition, Al-Jassar pointed to successful architectural collaborations, including landmark projects in Kuwait designed by European architects, as further evidence of the strength of cultural ties. 'This forum reflects Kuwait's commitment to reinforcing cultural exchange with nations around the world, particularly the European Union,' he said. EU Ambassador to Kuwait Anne Koistinen lauded Kuwait's cultural and civilizational legacy, describing it as a 'valuable traditional treasure.' She emphasized the depth of cooperation in various fields such as architecture, the arts, and human sciences, as well as shared museum initiatives between Kuwait and the EU. Koistinen praised the forum as a tangible demonstration of deep-rooted and expanding cultural collaboration, noting that Kuwait and the EU are set to mark 40 years of diplomatic relations in early 2026. Prominent figures from both sides participated in the forum, engaging in dialogue on preserving cultural heritage and exploring new avenues of cooperation. Discussions included initiatives such as the European Capitals of Culture, best practices in heritage conservation, cultural innovation, the role of museums, and community engagement in cultural activities. The event also served as a platform to explore strategies to elevate EU-Kuwait cultural relations to a more strategic level, aligning with both sides' aspirations to foster long-term partnerships grounded in mutual respect and shared cultural values. — KUNA
Arab Times
19-05-2025
- Business
- Arab Times
Kuwait-EU forge deeper cultural ties at landmark forum
KUWAIT CITY, May 19 : Secretary General of the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL) Mohammad Al-Jassar on Monday stressed the significance of Kuwait-EU cultural cooperation. Al-Jassar made the statement to KUNA on the sidelines of the EUKuwait Culture Forum, organized by the EU Delegation to Kuwait to celebrate the State of Kuwait becoming the Arab Capital of Culture and Media for 2025. The first-ever event was held under the patronage of Minister of Information and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Abdulrahman Al- Mutairi. Al-Jassar said that Kuwait-EU cooperation cultural cooperation plays a significant role in the promotion of bilateral relations in various domains, hailing their bilateral cultural relations as 'fruitful and excellent'. He cited the continued visits of EU archaeological excavation teams to Kuwait as a resonant paradigm of fruitful cooperation between both sides. He added that Kuwait always sends many students to EU countries to acquire knowledge and expertise in different fields so that they could contribute to developing their homeland and society. He also cited existing architectural cooperation between Kuwait and the EU, particularly regarding the EU designing of special buildings and landmarks in Kuwait as another unequivocal proof of their significant cultural cooperation. Al-Jassar considered that today's event reflects the fact that the State of Kuwait attaches much attention to bolstering and cementing cultural relations with world countries, especially the EU. For her part, Anne Koistinen, EU Ambassador to the State of Kuwait, told KUNA that Kuwait's cultural and civilizational heritage is a valuable traditional treasure, pointing to EU archaeological missions in Kuwait. She added that Kuwait-EU cooperation covers architecture, arts and human science, along with the sharing of movable museums. Koistinen spoke highly of the first-ever EU-Kuwaiti cultural forum as clear-cut proof of deep cultural cooperation between the EU and the State of Kuwait, which are expected to mark 40 years since they forged their diplomatic relations early next year. Prominent speakers from the EU and Kuwait participated in the forum to discuss the long-standing collaboration between European Union Member States and Kuwait to preserve and promote cultural heritage. During the event, participants also exchanged ways to promote and increase EU-Kuwait cultural connections, as both sides strive to enhance their excellent relations and elevate them to a strategic level. The discussions at the forum touched upon a wide range of topics, including initiatives such as the European Capitals of Culture, best European and Kuwaiti practices in preserving cultural heritage and building partnerships, as well as innovation and audiovisual practices or the role of museums in raising awareness and engaging the local communities in cultural heritage practices. (KUNA)
Kuwait News Agency
19-05-2025
- Business
- Kuwait News Agency
NCCAL chief underlines Kuwait-EU cultural coop.
KUWAIT, May 19 (KUNA) -- Secretary General of the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL) Mohammad Al-Jassar on Monday stressed the significance of Kuwait-EU cultural cooperation. Al-Jassar made the statement to KUNA on the sidelines of the EU-Kuwait Culture Forum, organized by the EU Delegation to Kuwait to celebrate the State of Kuwait becoming the Arab Capital of Culture and Media for 2025. The first-ever event was held under the patronage of Minister of Information and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi. Al-Jassar said that Kuwait-EU cooperation cultural cooperation plays a significant role in the promotion of bilateral relations in various domains, hailing their bilateral cultural relations as "fruitful and excellent". He cited the continued visits of EU archaeological excavation teams to Kuwait as a resonant paradigm of fruitful cooperation between both sides. He added that Kuwait always sends many students to EU countries to acquire knowledge and expertise in different fields so that they could contribute to developing their homeland and society. He also cited existing architectural cooperation between Kuwait and the EU, particularly regarding the EU designing of special buildings and landmarks in Kuwait as another unequivocal proof of their significant cultural cooperation. Al-Jassar considered that today's event reflects the fact that the State of Kuwait attaches much attention to bolstering and cementing cultural relations with world countries, especially the EU. For her part, Anne Koistinen, EU Ambassador to the State of Kuwait, told KUNA that Kuwait's cultural and civilizational heritage is a valuable traditional treasure, pointing to EU archaeological missions in Kuwait. She added that Kuwait-EU cooperation covers architecture, arts and human science, along with the sharing of movable museums. Koistinen spoke highly of the first-ever EU-Kuwaiti cultural forum as clear-cut proof of deep cultural cooperation between the EU and the State of Kuwait, which are expected to mark 40 years since they forged their diplomatic relations early next year. Prominent speakers from the EU and Kuwait participated in the forum to discuss the long-standing collaboration between European Union Member States and Kuwait to preserve and promote cultural heritage. During the event, participants also exchanged ways to promote and increase EU-Kuwait cultural connections, as both sides strive to enhance their excellent relations and elevate them to a strategic level. The discussions at the forum touched upon a wide range of topics, including initiatives such as the European Capitals of Culture, best European and Kuwaiti practices in preserving cultural heritage and building partnerships, as well as innovation and audiovisual practices or the role of museums in raising awareness and engaging the local communities in cultural heritage practices. (end)
Arab Times
17-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Arab Times
Kuwait opens submissions for 2025 Media Award 'Sheraa'
KUWAIT CITY, May 17: The Higher Committee of the Kuwait Media Award (Sheraa) announced that media professionals can begin submitting their works for consideration starting Sunday, with the submission period running until July 18. Submissions can be made through the dedicated page on the Ministry of Information's official website. In a statement issued on Saturday, Saad Al-Ali, Chairman of the Higher Committee of the Award, emphasized that the initiative is part of the Ministry of Information's efforts to support and develop Kuwait's media landscape. Al-Ali expressed the committee's commitment to recognizing outstanding media works across various categories, including digital media. He encouraged creative and accomplished Kuwaiti media professionals to participate in the 'Sheraa' awards, noting that the competition is a reflection of Kuwait's deep appreciation for the significant influence media has in shaping perspectives, fostering dialogue, and contributing to development. This year's launch of the award coincides with Kuwait's designation as the Arab Capital of Culture and Media for 2025, adding a distinctive regional significance to the event. Al-Ali also expressed his gratitude to the Minister of Information and Culture, Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, for his support in spotlighting the work of distinguished Kuwaiti media figures through this prestigious award, which was first announced in January. The award will be granted across 16 media categories, including individual awards for Best Interviewer, Best Content Creator, Best Investigative Report, Best Columnist, Best Critical Article, Best Photograph, and Best Caricature. Group awards will recognize the Best Dialogue Work, Best Documentary Film, Best Individual Dialogue Work, Best Interactive Program, Best Photography Work, Best Work Using Artificial Intelligence, and the Best Integrated Media Campaign. Additionally, the committee will nominate a recipient for the "Media Appreciation Award," recognizing a media figure for their outstanding and lasting contributions to the field. Another special honor, the "Supreme Committee Award," will be given to a work selected by the committee, which addresses a topic of national importance, presented through innovative media frameworks that have a positive societal impact. Submissions will be evaluated by specialized arbitration committees for each category, with winners to be announced during a ceremony in December 2025. To apply, interested media professionals should visit the Ministry of Information's website ( and access the dedicated award page. A key condition for eligibility is that the submitted works must have been published between May 18, 2024, and the final day of the submission period. The Kuwait Media Award (Sheraa) aims to foster excellence across all media sectors, reflecting the country's dedication to nurturing a culture of creativity and innovation. The award also plays a pivotal role in promoting professionalism in the media industry, underscoring the media's influential role in shaping public opinion and addressing societal issues.
