Milan: The ninth edition of the International Festival of the Arabic Language and Culture concluded in Milan, examining the role of Arabic in shaping European literature. Held under the patronage of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), in collaboration with the Arabic Cultural Institute and the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, the festival ran under the theme 'The Arabic Weave in the Fabric of European Literature'.
According to Emirates News Agency, the two-day event brought together 24 academics, researchers, and writers from 13 Arab and European countries, exploring linguistic, narrative, and poetic exchanges across Mediterranean cultures. Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, emphasized the UAE's commitment to placing culture at the center of dialogue between peoples, with books serving as a bridge between civilizations under the vision of H.H. Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. He noted that Arabic culture has historically enriched European literature through translation and intellectual exchange.
Mohamed Safi Al Mosteghanemi, Secretary-General of the Arabic Language Academy in Sharjah, highlighted the depth of Arabic influence in European languages through loanwords and translation, noting ongoing efforts to strengthen research collaboration between Arab and European scholars. Wael Farouq, Director of the Arabic Cultural Institute, stated the festival aims to explore Arabic's continued contribution to European literary traditions and promote dialogue across cultures.
The programme included research sessions on Arabic linguistic influence in Europe, the impact of One Thousand and One Nights on European literature, and the evolution of Arabic narrative forms. Discussions also covered diaspora literature, the role of Orientalists and Arabists, and cultural exchanges across the Mediterranean. The festival concluded with a session on poetic and literary dialogue, followed by a cultural performance combining poetry and music.
