Launch of “World Cultural Heritage Weeks in Sharjah”: (SIH) Opens a Window onto Belarusian Culture and Strengthens Bridges of Cultural Understanding
H.E. Dr Abdulaziz Al Musallam, Chairman of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage (SIH), today inaugurated the activities of “Belarusian Heritage Week” at the Institute’s headquarters, in the presence of H.E. Igor Bely, Ambassador of the Republic of Belarus to the UAE, and H.E. Alexey Galdibin, Consul General of the Republic of Belarus. The event forms part of the “World Cultural Heritage Weeks in Sharjah” programme, organised by the Institute from 19 to 22 October. The programme aims to introduce audiences to the richness of Belarusian cultural heritage, highlight its traditions, practices and cultural expressions as integral elements of its national identity, and foster cultural dialogue and closer ties between cultures and peoples.
A Window onto Belarusian Heritage
The opening ceremony witnessed a strong turnout and active engagement from representatives of the Belarusian Embassy, the Institute’s departments and heritage enthusiasts, who attended the inauguration of the exhibition accompanying the week’s activities. The exhibition offers visitors an opportunity to discover the distinctive features of Belarusian heritage, including its inherited traditions and cultural expressions that reflect the history and civilisational identity of Belarusian society. It also highlights the role of heritage in preserving collective memory and transmitting knowledge and values across generations.
Heritage: A Bridge Between Peoples
H.E. Dr Abdulaziz Al Musallam affirmed that organising “Belarusian Heritage Week” reflects the Institute’s commitment to introducing global cultural heritage and showcasing the traditions, knowledge and practices through which peoples express their civilisational identities. He noted that heritage provides a broad and meaningful space for dialogue and human connection.
Dr Al Musallam said: “World Cultural Heritage Weeks in Sharjah provide a platform for encounters and knowledge exchange among peoples. They contribute to showcasing the richness of human heritage and the diversity of its cultural influences, while strengthening intercultural dialogue by introducing the customs, traditions and practices that form an integral part of communities’ identities.
“We believe that heritage is not merely a record of the past, but a bridge connecting generations, fostering mutual understanding and opening wider horizons for communication between cultures.”
He added that hosting cultures from around the world in Sharjah reflects the Emirate’s commitment to preserving and promoting human heritage and strengthening its presence in cultural life. This approach supports the exchange of knowledge and expertise while reinforcing the value of cultural diversity as a source of enrichment for human civilisation.
A Decade of Cultural Exchange
For her part, Aisha Obaid Ghabesh, Director of the Activities and Events Department at the Institute, affirmed that since its launch in 2016, the “World Cultural Heritage Weeks in Sharjah” programme has spent a decade building bridges of communication between peoples by hosting countries from around the world and introducing audiences to their heritage, traditional crafts, folk arts and authentic customs.
She explained that the programme is founded on the principle of equitable cultural exchange. It not only introduces audiences to the heritage of the guest country but also gives Sharjah’s guests the opportunity to discover Emirati heritage through joint artistic performances, heritage workshops and traditional crafts that share common features. These activities strengthen cultural ties and highlight shared human values.
She added that Belarusian Heritage Week continues this journey, opening a new window onto the culture of a friendly nation. The initiative enriches Sharjah’s cultural landscape and underscores the importance of joint efforts in strengthening intercultural understanding.
Sharjah: A Platform for Human Heritage
Through its “World Cultural Heritage Weeks in Sharjah” programme, the Sharjah Institute for Heritage continues to consolidate the Emirate’s position as a platform for cultural dialogue and knowledge exchange. Its initiatives enable the public to explore the heritage of different peoples and discover the diversity of their civilisational identities, while raising awareness of the importance of preserving cultural heritage and passing it on to future generations.
Belarusian Heritage Week marks another milestone in this ongoing journey and provides an opportunity to celebrate the diversity of human experiences. It also reaffirms the role of heritage in building bridges of friendship and understanding among peoples and promoting the values of mutual respect and cultural coexistence.