Pakistan’s Ambassador Celebrates Literary Bonds at Sharjah’s 45th Book Fair

As the emirate's publishing showcase reaches its midpoint, diplomatic ties deepen through cultural exchange and scholarly preservation initiatives

The 45th Sharjah International Book Fair has become the setting for a meaningful affirmation of cultural kinship between two nations. Shafqat Ali Khan, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to the UAE, formally inaugurated his country’s pavilion at the fair, which continues until 15th November at Expo Centre Sharjah, underscoring the enduring literary and intellectual connections that bind Pakistan and the Emirates.

In conversations with the Emirates News Agency, the ambassador reflected on the robust cultural ties between the two nations, acknowledging Sharjah’s sustained commitment to nurturing the publishing industry and fostering the kind of cultural dialogue and knowledge exchange that enriches both societies. He spoke too of encouraging the Pakistani community to embrace reading as a fundamental practice, recognising literature’s capacity to strengthen community bonds and broaden horizons.

The ambassador’s visit encompassed meetings with key figures in Sharjah’s cultural landscape. During an audience with Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, Chief Executive Officer of the Sharjah Book Authority, discussion turned to deepening literary and cultural cooperation between institutions across both nations. This engagement reflects a broader pattern of how Sharjah builds lasting bridges across the world through its distinctive approach to international relations and cultural partnership.

A particular focus of the visit was the Muhyiddin Ibn Arabi Foundation’s stand, where Sheikh Ayman Hamdi Al-Akbari, the foundation’s director, outlined the institution’s work in safeguarding Islamic scholarly heritage and rendering original texts accessible to broader audiences. Khan commended the foundation’s endeavours to champion the scholarly legacy of Islamic civilisation, particularly in presenting the intellectual contributions of Shah Waliullah Muhaddis Dehlvi and preserving the continent of knowledge accumulated across Islamic history.

What it means for Abu Dhabi

These exchanges at the book fair exemplify how the Emirates uses cultural platforms to strengthen bilateral relationships and foster mutual understanding. Pakistan represents a significant community within Abu Dhabi and the wider UAE, and initiatives like these formal state visits to cultural events reinforce the bonds of shared heritage and intellectual curiosity that characterise the region’s approach to international engagement.

For the broader landscape of the Emirates’ cultural diplomacy, the ambassador’s participation underscores how literary festivals and publishing platforms have become essential venues for substantive exchange between nations. By hosting such gatherings, Sharjah continues its role as custodian of the region’s commitment to knowledge, learning and the civilisational values that transcend borders and generations.

Source: Emirates News Agency (WAM)