The Saudi pavilion of the Sharjah International Book Fair became the focal point for cultural exchange recently; indeed, it became the “place to be” for those who wished to meet senior intellectuals, poets, artists and writers from more than 60 countries.

Dr. Salim Al-Malik, the general supervisor for the Department for International Cooperation in Education, appreciated the efforts made by all during the outstanding exhibition in the Saudi pavilion .

He noted that, this year, the Saudi pavilion at the exhibition projected a different identity due to its cultural significance and scientific attraction that brought together visitors under the theme of “A pen with wings.”

He also said that the efforts made at the Saudi pavilion displayed the cultural legacy of the government. Within the activities was a program entitled “The presence and absence,” where Saudi writer and artist, Dr. Baker Sheddi, along with Mohamed Ali, were honored by the pavilion and by attending students who are studying in Sharjah.

Dr. Baker Sheddi and Mohamed Ali are both artists and writers of theater plays such as “Tash Matash” that symbolize Saudi culture and discuss Saudi issues and cultural influence.

Dr. Sheddi and Mohammed Ali thanked the audience, and gave a brief account about the Saudi theatrical movement, Saudi theater activities, the history of theater, and its contribution in highlighting social stereotypes and other issues in the Kingdom.

Dr. Abdulaziz Othman Altwaijri, director general of the Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization “ISESCO”, who was also the guest of honor of the Sharjah International Book fair, appreciated the efforts of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah in supporting Islamic organizations and institutions in order to achieve common Arab regional goals.

Dr. Altwaijri, while visiting the Saudi pavilion, said that the service of the Islamic and Arab countries is one of the key priorities of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. He noted that the “ISESCO” organization is working to achieve its objectives to disseminate a culture of coexistence, justice and peace through dialogue and the development of educational, scientific and cultural factors in the Islamic world.

He praised the role of Saudi Arabia in such cultural exhibitions, emphasising their message regarding spread of brotherly spirit, which will contribute to the reunification of the nation.