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Saudi Arabia’s Contributions Culminate in its Re-election to UNESCO Executive Board

Minister of Culture Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan delivers Saudi Arabia’s speech at the UNESCO General Conference in Paris. (SPA)
Minister of Culture Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan delivers Saudi Arabia’s speech at the UNESCO General Conference in Paris. (SPA)
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Saudi Arabia’s Contributions Culminate in its Re-election to UNESCO Executive Board

Minister of Culture Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan delivers Saudi Arabia’s speech at the UNESCO General Conference in Paris. (SPA)
Minister of Culture Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan delivers Saudi Arabia’s speech at the UNESCO General Conference in Paris. (SPA)

As a culmination of its contributions to promoting education, culture and science around the world, Saudi Arabia has won membership in the Executive Council of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) for the 2023-2027 session, for the second time in a row, during the 42nd session of the UNESCO General Conference.

Prince Badr bin Farhan, Minister of Culture and Chairman of the National Committee for Education, Culture, and Science, said: “As one of the founding members of UNESCO since 1946, Saudi Arabia fully supports the enhancement of the education, culture, and science sectors globally.”

He added that the Kingdom’s victory was a result of the member-states’ confidence in Saudi Arabia’s effective contribution to supporting the three sectors in achieving sustainable development goals and serving as catalysts for empowerment and prosperity worldwide.

Prince Badr bin Farhan noted that Saudi Arabia was the first country to take the initiative to include the cultural dimension in the agenda of the G20 Summit, adding that UNESCO was a party in the first joint meeting of the group’s culture ministers, during the Kingdom’s presidency of the summit in 2020.

Regarding the partnership between his country and the organization in the fields of education, science and culture, the minister pointed to the Saudi Fund at UNESCO, through which the Kingdom launched six pioneering projects to make a positive impact on cultural heritage around the world.

Prince Badr explained that Saudi Arabia, through its membership in the Executive Board of UNESCO, will collaborate with member states to strengthen international cooperation, achieve the organization’s strategic targets, and sustain its vital role within the organization.

The Executive Council is one of the three constitutional bodies of UNESCO, which include the General Conference and the General Secretariat. Its members are elected at the General Conference, which is held every two years.

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Culture

‘Common Ground’ Event Celebrating Iraqi Culture Opens in Riyadh

The "Common Ground" event is held at Mega Studios in Riyadh. SPA
The "Common Ground" event is held at Mega Studios in Riyadh. SPA
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‘Common Ground’ Event Celebrating Iraqi Culture Opens in Riyadh

The "Common Ground" event is held at Mega Studios in Riyadh. SPA
The "Common Ground" event is held at Mega Studios in Riyadh. SPA

The "Common Ground" event, organized by the Saudi Ministry of Culture, opens on Wednesday to the public until December 31 at Mega Studios in Riyadh, celebrating Iraqi culture and the historical and cultural bonds between the Kingdom and Iraq.

Visitors are set to embark on a rich journey filled with sensory, visual, and auditory experiences within an immersive environment that invites interaction and engagement with the cultures of both nations, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The event is divided into four main sections. The first features an art exhibition showcasing over 100 pieces by renowned Saudi and Iraqi artists, highlighting the deep cultural similarities and emphasizing significant historical milestones backed by thorough research. This section includes diverse cultural sectors that reflect an esthetic blend of creativity and cultural diversity in a harmonious setting. "The Host" segment offers a pathway titled "Dialogue Between Civilizations," which illustrates the interwoven histories of Saudi Arabia and Iraq, emphasizing their longstanding relationship and cultural connections.

The second section, "Al-Mutanabbi Street," presents an Arabic calligraphy mural, poems by Al-Mutanabbi, and the Shabandar Café. It highlights the cultural significance of the revered poet Al-Mutanabbi in Baghdad, creating an atmosphere that reflects authentic literary and cultural traditions with book-filled shops and seminars that delve into cultural and intellectual topics relevant to both countries. All this is complemented by musical performances that tie everything together with a rich cultural backdrop.

In the third section called "Realm of Melody and Authenticity," classical music concerts will create a fitting ambiance, featuring performances by leading Saudi and Iraqi artists. It will also honor various artists whose contributions have enriched the cultural and artistic scene.

"Path of Connection" is the fourth section that showcases diverse aspects of both Saudi and Iraqi cultures, deepening visitors’ experiences and familiarizing them with the cultural elements of each nation. A vibrant, creative area for children will offer enjoyable learning activities centered around the cultures of both countries, including heritage games, arts and crafts, and interactive storytelling.

The restaurant area promises a unique culinary experience featuring dishes that blend Saudi and Iraqi flavors reflecting both nations’ rich heritage and authentic culinary traditions. Visitors may also enjoy an array of hot and cold beverages, such as distinctly flavored Saudi coffee and traditional Iraqi tea, embodying the hospitality that is at the heart of Arab culture.

The event aims to deepen cultural understanding through innovative artistic experiences that showcase the civilizations of Saudi Arabia and Iraq. It highlights the shared heritage and arts of both nations and contributes to strengthening the cultural relations between their peoples.

This initiative reflects the Ministry of Culture's dedication to fostering international cultural exchange as part of the national cultural strategy under Saudi Vision 2030.