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Kuwait Times
3 days ago
- General
- Kuwait Times
Japan and Kuwait strengthen cultural, technological ties
KUWAIT: A rich dialogue unfolded on Sunday at the closing ceremony of the Second Hiroshima-Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Poster Exhibition at the Contemporary Art Platform, as Kuwaiti and Japanese experts exchanged reflections on peace, memory, and the potential for deeper cultural and technological collaboration. 'Hiroshima's vibrant culture, refined traditions, and innovative spirit remind us of the enduring value of peace,' said Japanese Ambassador to Kuwait Mukai Kenichiro, highlighting how the city, globally known as a symbol of peace, is also a thriving center of craftsmanship and creativity. 'From cutting-edge industries to traditional arts and cuisine, Hiroshima continues to preserve its past while driving future innovation. We see strong potential for partnerships with Kuwait in business, technology, tourism, and the creative industries.' Dr Hasan Ashkanani, Professor of Anthropological Archaeology at Kuwait University and Consultant for Archaeology and Museum Affairs at the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL), shared insights from his recent training in Hiroshima and Tokyo on advanced 3D documentation techniques for preserving archaeological heritage. He announced that Kuwait will host its first Japanese expert from June 20 to 25, who will lead training sessions for students, NCCAL staff, and IT professionals on applying these techniques to sites such as Failaka. 'We have over 1,000 archaeological sites, and we want to introduce them to our people and the world in advanced, virtual formats,' he said. Dr. Hamed Al-Ajlan Dr Hasan Ashkanani Shotaro Kobayashi Photos are displayed at the Second Hiroshima-Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Poster Exhibition. - Photos by Yasser Al-Zayyat He recalled standing in Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, pausing at a preserved piece of fish skin, and being struck by a powerful memory. 'It reminded me of 1990. I was eight years old. We share the same feeling of injustice. August 1945 and August 1990 are tied by pain — 250,000 lives lost in Japan, over 700 in Kuwait during the invasion.' Ashkanani's visit also revealed how Hiroshima now uses virtual reality to recreate the bombing experience. 'That was one of the main reasons I went. I wanted to bring this to Kuwait — to tell our stories and preserve our memory in interactive, immersive ways.' Dr Hamed Al-Ajlan, former Director of Scientific Culture at KFAS, also reflected on his visit to Hiroshima. 'I expected a very sad city,' he said, 'but I found it beautiful and full of flowers.' At the Peace Museum, one moment stayed with him: a watch belonging to a soldier, its hands frozen at 8:15 — the moment the atomic bomb fell. 'By the time I left the museum, I cried,' he recalled. 'But Hiroshima is much more than tragedy. There's industry, culture and resilience behind it.' Adding a business perspective, Shotaro Kobayashi, President of BIZRES Co. Ltd. and board member of the Hiroshima Entertainment Association, highlighted that while Hiroshima is often viewed through the lens of its past, it is also home to thriving industries — including automobiles, furniture, and food. 'Connections with the Middle East, especially Kuwait, remain limited,' he said, 'but the potential is there.'
Arab Times
4 days ago
- Politics
- Arab Times
Kuwait hosts forum on 'Classical Arabic Thought in Contemporary Global Research'
KUWAIT CITY, May 26: The forum titled 'Classical Arabic Thought in Contemporary Global Research' opened Monday at the Yarmouk Cultural Center. 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 Assistant Secretary General for Culture Aisha Al-Mahmoud described the forum as a 'milestone' that underscores Kuwait's cultural leadership as the Arab Capital of Culture and Media for 2025. She emphasized the forum's role in highlighting the recent transformations in the study of Arab intellectual heritage. Al-Mahmoud noted that the past few years have witnessed a "qualitative renaissance" in the study of classical Arabic thought. She explained that contemporary research has moved beyond traditional investigation and publication, entering new analytical contexts that employ modern methodologies and explore the historical and social dimensions of heritage texts. She added that the event brings together researchers from various generations, representing a wide range of Arab and international universities and research institutions. The forum, she said, aims to foster the exchange of ideas and promote scientific collaboration in intellectual and philosophical studies. Expressing gratitude to all participating institutions and contributors, Al-Mahmoud stressed that such events elevate Kuwait's profile on the Arab and global cultural stage and contribute to advancing scientific research in the fields of heritage and knowledge. French Ambassador to Kuwait Olivier Gauvin also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of research and cultural cooperation between France and Kuwait. He praised the partnership between CERAP and NCCAL in heritage preservation and in strengthening mutual understanding of Islamic culture. Gauvin described the conference as a significant milestone in the long-standing French-Kuwaiti friendship. He noted that the French Institute for Islamic Studies, established by the French Presidency, aims to deepen the understanding of Islam. Events like this forum, he added, support that mission by assembling leading researchers and experts in the fields of manuscript studies and intellectual history. The ambassador highlighted the importance of showcasing the vast troves of uncatalogued and untranslated Arabic manuscripts, many of which remain scattered across global libraries and private collections. He pointed out that the French National Library alone holds over 7,000 Arabic manuscripts—underscoring the critical need for documentation and preservation efforts. He also called for stronger academic dialogue between Arab and European scholars, noting Kuwait's historic role in fostering critical thought and intercultural engagement, 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, spoke about the need to emphasize cultural and intellectual dimensions that promote mutual understanding. He said scholarly work on texts and heritage opens 'new horizons for a deeper understanding of cultures,' and emphasized that continued academic cooperation is essential to renewing knowledge and preserving the shared human heritage. Dr. Makram Abbas, Director of CERAP, said the conference addresses a broad range of research themes, including library science, heritage preservation, and manuscript care within national institutions. He also highlighted how scientific discoveries have reshaped conventional understandings and inspired reinterpretations of classical Arab thought. Conference host Dr. Reem Al-Rudaini, Associate Professor of Islamic History at Kuwait University, remarked that the study of classical Arab thought has seen increased richness and dynamism in recent years. She noted that while global transformations have occurred in fields such as philosophy, science, and literature since the early 20th century, the sheer breadth and diversity of contemporary studies in these areas form a unique phenomenon deserving careful attention. The three-day international conference aims to explore these transformations in depth. The program includes a series of scientific sessions focusing on indexing, critical analysis, and modern readings of manuscripts and key intellectual works within Arab and Islamic civilizations.
Arab Times
22-05-2025
- Arab Times
‘China, Kuwait cultural ties have seen major progress'
KUWAIT CITY, May 22: Chinese Ambassador to Kuwait Zhang Jianwei has affirmed that culture opens doors between peoples, and that humanitarian exchange between China and Kuwait has witnessed remarkable development in recent years. Jianwei made the statement during the opening of the 'Experience Chinese Intangible Heritage' event titled, 'Tea: A Cause of Harmony - Indigo Dyeing and the Art of Tea Preparation,' at the Chinese Cultural Center which, he stressed, plays a crucial role in promoting mutual understanding and cultural exchange. Present at the event were Sheikha Al-Anoud Ibrahim Al-Sabah, who represented the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL), along with numerous Chinese culture enthusiasts and Chinese community members. The Ambassador expressed gratitude to NCCAL and praised Sheikha Al-Anoud for supporting Chinese culture and strengthening ties between the two nations. He stated that cultural exchanges enrich civilizations and mutual learning leads to prosperity, while confirming the shared appreciation for traditions and the pursuit of a good life in both Chinese and Kuwaiti cultures. He said indigo dyeing is an ancient art reflecting the Chinese pursuit of beauty, and described Chinese tea as a cultural symbol embodying peace, tolerance, and intercultural coexistence. He also pointed out the strengthened cultural cooperation between China and Kuwait within the framework of President Xi Jinping's Global Civilization Initiative, affirming the role of the Chinese Embassy in organizing activities to deepen mutual understanding. He stated that the center, the first in the Gulf region, is a vital resource for learning the Chinese language, as well as traditional and contemporary Chinese culture. He highlighted the successful series of courses and events organized by the center, reflecting the growing Kuwaiti interest in Chinese culture. On a personal note, he announced his imminent departure from Kuwait; indicating it is an honor to oversee the establishment of the center and participate in its activities. He shared his fond memories of Kuwait and his wish for the center's continued progress, along with his anticipation of the unwavering support of NCCAL. Meanwhile, acting Assistant Secretary General for the Islamic Antiquities Sector Dr. Sheikha Al-Anoud Al-Sabah said NCCAL is keen on building cultural bridges, especially during Kuwait's year as the Capital of Arab Culture and Media. In a bilingual speech, she highlighted the strong cultural, media and educational cooperation between Kuwait and China since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1971. She stated that several agreements and memoranda of understanding led to constructive communication and a roadmap for collaboration. She cited the first cultural agreement in 1982, which laid the groundwork for 43 years of exchanges and activities. Director of the center Liu Jinhong explained that the event aimed to introduce Chinese heritage through live demonstrations of traditional indigo dyeing and Chinese tea making by renowned artists. He confirmed that the center is witnessing the growing interest among the Kuwaiti public, as many have been inquiring about Chinese language courses and cultural activities. He pointed out that the friendly relations between China and Kuwait have been going on for more than 60 years, hoping for more Kuwaiti visits to China and the continued flourishing of their friendship.
Kuwait Times
20-05-2025
- Business
- Kuwait Times
Kuwait, India celebrate 250 years of friendship
KUWAIT: In an exhibition that bridges centuries of shared history, the Indian Embassy in Kuwait marked 250 years of India-Kuwait friendship, a relationship that began long before either nation took its modern form. Held at the National Library of Kuwait on Monday, the exhibition runs until Friday and features a rich collection of rare documents, trade records, and cultural artifacts. Together, they tell the story of how trade, travel, and mutual respect have long connected the peoples of India and Kuwait. Reviving what he described as the 'glorious past between the two countries,' the Indian Ambassador to Kuwait Dr Adarsh Swaika highlighted that this legacy brings with it a responsibility for building a prosperous future too. 'While the older generation remembers these ties, it is now the younger generation's turn to discover it. That's the key focus of the event,' he told Kuwait Times. He added that over the coming days, the embassy expects around 2,000 students to visit the exhibition — a modest yet meaningful effort to raise awareness about this rich history. In his remarks, he shared that the India-Kuwait connection traces back to the late 18th century, when Kuwaiti merchants sailed to Indian port cities with goods like dates, Arabian horses, and pearls. In return, they brought back rice, spices, timber, and textiles — not just for local use in Kuwait but also for trade across the wider Gulf region. The exhibition showcases an array of manuscripts and artifacts that document this exchange, including trade documents from Indian ports, Kuwaiti books on pearls printed in Arabic and Gujarati in Indian presses, and historic currency notes and stamps — many of which remained legal tender in Kuwait until 1961. Dr Mohammad Al-Jassar Fahad Ghazi Al-Abduljil Indian currency notes which remained legal tender in Kuwait for a long time. - Photos by Yasser Al-Zayyat Prices of products sold by Kuwaiti merchants in India. Rare letters exchanged by people from the two countries - reflecting the social ties. A section of the exhibition also honors the visits and relationships between leaders of both countries over the past seven decades. Notably, Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salem Al-Sabah, one of Kuwait's most revered leaders, spent extended periods in India. Ambassador Swaika also highlighted the significance of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Kuwait in December, describing it as a 'pivotal moment that broke the diplomatic pause in high-level engagements.' He added, 'We now eagerly anticipate a reciprocal visit from Kuwaiti leadership to India — an opportunity to write the next chapter of this extraordinary journey together.' Dr Mohammad Al-Jassar, Secretary General of the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters, spoke about the deep-rooted cultural relationship between India and Kuwait, emphasizing that it goes far beyond commerce. 'Our ties with India go beyond just trade, beyond just merchant families who presented today some of their stories,' he said. 'These types of relationships establish or create a soft cultural diplomacy between nations.' He described the exhibition as part of an ongoing cultural dialogue between the National Council and countries with which Kuwait shares strong and enduring ties. Fahad Ghazi Al-Abduljil, President of the Kuwaiti Heritage Society, contributed personal documents to the exhibition, highlighting the longstanding economic ties between the two nations. Believing that documentation is the only means to preserve events and information, they issued this brochure to document this important exhibition, which sheds light on key aspects of this deep and historic relationship. Most of the documents showcased highlight the prices of Indian goods, the names of some Kuwaiti commercial offices at ports in the Indian subcontinent, as well as the significant trade exchange between Kuwait and India at the time. Al-Abduljil also remarked that India's cultural influence remains visible in Kuwait today — from elements in the local cuisine to words embedded in everyday language.
Hans India
20-05-2025
- Politics
- Hans India
Kuwait hosts five-day exhibition celebrating 250 years of 'friendship' with India
Indian Ambassador to Kuwait Adarsh Swaika and Director General of Kuwait's National Center for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL) Mohammad Al-Jassar inaugurated 5-day exhibition cum talk series, 'Rihla-e-Dosti: 250 Years of India-Kuwait Friendship' on Monday at National Library in Kuwait city. The exhibition showcases rare artefacts, manuscripts, Indian currency, books, stamps, and photos of leaders from India and Kuwait. "At the opening of Rihla-e-Dosti exhibition, Ambassador Adarsh Swaika and DG, NCCAL highlighted the centuries-old rich history of India-Kuwait relations. Fahad AbdulJaleel, President of Kuwait Heritage Society, was the main curator and contributor of the exhibition," Embassy of India, Kuwait posted on X on Tuesday. The exhibition was organised jointly with NCCAL with the support of Kuwait Heritage Society, National Archives of India, External Publicity Division, Ministry of External Affairs, and Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, India. A booklet showcasing select photos was released during the opening of the exhibition. A panel discussion during the event featured prominent merchant families from Kuwait with deep historical ties to India -- Ibrahim Abdullatif Al-Ibrahim, Suliman Abdulmohsen Al-Khames and Abdullatif Abdulrazza shared stories of their families' India connections from the 19th and early 20th centuries. Addressing the exhibition, DG NCCAL, Mohammad Al-Jassar, said relations with India have been a unique example of deep-rooted understanding and cultural exchange. He stressed the role of culture and arts in boosting relations among people. Appreciating the growing economic ties between the two countries, he highlighted that in 1775, Kuwait's ship arrived, for the first time, at India's ports, and Kuwaitis after that established a wide trade transport network between the West and the East, turning Kuwait into a vital trade route. Many Kuwaiti families stayed near Indian ports and worked in exporting multiple vital commodities to the Arabian Gulf ports, like food and wood, he further stated. Meanwhile, Ambassador Adarsh Swaika affirmed that bilateral relations of the two nations are deep-seated and robust, lauding commercial ties that began in the late 18th century when Kuwait's ship carrying dates, houses, and pearls reached Indian ports. The ambassador noted that the event, co-organised by the Indian Embassy to Kuwait and the Kuwait Heritage Society, marks the cemented relations and boosts awareness of the two countries' youth on their common rich history. The exhibition contains documents on trade at India's ports and Kuwait's books about pearls printed in Arabic or local dialects in India, along with other items.
