Cultural Development Fund Reviews Opportunities in Saudi Film Sector at Berlin Festival

Director Mati Diop receives the Golden Bear for Best Film for 'Dahomey' during the awards ceremony at the 74th Berlinale International Film Festival in Berlin, Germany, February 24, 2024. REUTERS/Fabrizio Bensch
Director Mati Diop receives the Golden Bear for Best Film for 'Dahomey' during the awards ceremony at the 74th Berlinale International Film Festival in Berlin, Germany, February 24, 2024. REUTERS/Fabrizio Bensch
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Cultural Development Fund Reviews Opportunities in Saudi Film Sector at Berlin Festival

Director Mati Diop receives the Golden Bear for Best Film for 'Dahomey' during the awards ceremony at the 74th Berlinale International Film Festival in Berlin, Germany, February 24, 2024. REUTERS/Fabrizio Bensch
Director Mati Diop receives the Golden Bear for Best Film for 'Dahomey' during the awards ceremony at the 74th Berlinale International Film Festival in Berlin, Germany, February 24, 2024. REUTERS/Fabrizio Bensch

The Cultural Development Fund recently concluded its participation in the 74th edition of the Berlin International Film Festival.

At the festival, the fund joined the Saudi pavilion alongside various government agencies to attract top-notch establishments to enter the Saudi film market.

The fund also held meetings with filmmakers and investors to discuss potential cooperation in the film industry.

Throughout its participation, the fund showcased financing and investment opportunities it offers to both local and foreign enterprises and shed light on the promising Saudi film market. In addition, the fund participated in a dialogue session called "Discover the Richness of Cinema in the Kingdom.”

The Festival took place from February 15 to 25.

During this session, Program Development Department Director Faisal Al-Aseeri highlighted the fund's efforts to provide financing solutions that cater to the sector's needs.

He also discussed the fund's role in reducing investment risks in the sector.



‘Anecdotes of an Arab Anglophile’ at the UK’s Society of Authors

Saudi Ambassador to Britain Prince Khalid bin Bandar bin Sultan at the Society of Authors’ seminar on Arab-British relations
Saudi Ambassador to Britain Prince Khalid bin Bandar bin Sultan at the Society of Authors’ seminar on Arab-British relations
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‘Anecdotes of an Arab Anglophile’ at the UK’s Society of Authors

Saudi Ambassador to Britain Prince Khalid bin Bandar bin Sultan at the Society of Authors’ seminar on Arab-British relations
Saudi Ambassador to Britain Prince Khalid bin Bandar bin Sultan at the Society of Authors’ seminar on Arab-British relations

The Society of Authors hosted a seminar on Arab-British relations in London during the launch of “Anecdotes of an Arab Anglophile,” a book by Faisal Abbas, editor-in-chief of “Arab News."

Led by Chris Doyle from the Council for Arab-British Understanding (CAABU), Monday's seminar focused on themes from Abbas’s book, published in English by Nomad Publishing.

It emphasized cultural bridge-building and understanding diverse societies’ customs and traditions. Discussions also covered Saudi Arabia’s reforms under the Kingdom’s national transformation plan, Vision 2030, and their global impact.

In his opening speech, Saudi Ambassador to Britain Prince Khalid bin Bandar bin Sultan praised "Arab News," published in English by the Saudi Research and Media Group (SRMG), for making his ambassadorial work easier.

He pointed out that traditionally, most books reflect the world’s perspective on the Middle East, but he welcomed the reversal of roles.

He highlighted this shift as part of Saudi Arabia’s ongoing progress in culture, economy, trade, and more.

From the British side, keynote speaker Sir Ben Elliot noted that such books play a crucial role in fostering respect and understanding between the two kingdoms.

He continued by highlighting that many have been fortunate to visit Saudi Arabia and witness its vibrancy.

Books like those by Abbas underscore the importance of cultural exchange, encouraging broader understanding through travel, respect, and open dialogue.

After the seminar, there was a book signing and a reception attended by British and Arab parliamentarians, former politicians, senior journalists, and academics.