Another successful edition of the Watch & Jewellery Middle East Show (WJMES) was concluded after attracting over than 60,000 visitors…reports Asian Lite News
Held under the esteemed patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, the event was organized by the Expo Centre Sharjah with the support of the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI).
More than 350 exhibitors from the most prestigious local and international houses and brands took part in the event to showcase their latest designs of jewellery, watches and goldware.
48th WJMES concludes with huge success
This year’s edition was characterized by special participation for Italy with a huge pavilion including 47 companies that showcased their state-of-the-art innovations from traditional and modern jewellery.
On the sidelines of the event, meetings were held with the Russian side, during which it was agreed to allocate a huge pavilion for the leading Russian jewelry brands and companies in the 2022’s edition.
Emirati companies that took part in the event recorded a remarkable presence with creative products simulating the Emirati heritage and jewels that combined together elegance, heritage, and modernity.
The “Emirati Goldsmiths” platform, which brought together 14 Emirati jewelry designers, also served as an additional attraction for visitors to view the latest innovations of young and creative Emirati talents in the jewelry industry.
“We are pleased with WJMES’s overwhelming success. This is confirmed by the willingness of the exhibiting companies to take part in the upcoming editions. The event has also successfully attracted new countries added to the large number of the participating ones, which reflects the importance of the exhibition in enhancing the country’s competitiveness as a global hub for the gold and jewelry trade,” said HE Saif Mohammad Al Midfa, CEO of Expo Centre Sharjah.
48th WJMES concludes with huge success
Sultan Shattaf, Director of Sales and Marketing Department, Expo Centre Sharjah, stressed that the impressive turnout of visitors is the result of the efforts made by the center to attract as many international exhibitors as possible.
This diversity of exhibitors has contributed to showcasing a wide range of the latest fashion lines and modern designs from various markets around the globe at very competitive prices with a golden opportunity to win valuable prizes, added Shattaf.
Winners of the raffle draws will be announced in the coming days, Shattaf noted.
The popular theatrical works of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, have received a grand reception in Madrid and Cordoba…reports Asian Lite News
The popular theatrical works of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, have received a grand reception in Madrid and Cordoba, the historic capital of Andalusia.
Madrid session
Elite intellectuals and academics have discussed and celebrated the rich legacy of Sharjah Ruler’s theatrical works, including those translated into Spanish, as part of the ‘Sharjah Literary Days’ event organised by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) in cooperation with Cása Árabe, which is operated as the strategic centre for Spain’s relations with the Arab world. The event follows a 2019 agreement between SBA and Cása Árabe, which was signed in the presence of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah to strengthen bilateral collaboration.
The event was held in the presence of HE Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, SBA Chairman; HE Majid Hassan Mohamed Al Suwaidi, Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to the Kingdom of Spain; HE Dr. Abdul Aziz Al Musallam, Chairman of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage; Bachar Yaghi, Ambassador of the League of Arab States to the Kingdom of Spain; diplomats, media persons, and officials representing the UAE and Spain.
Sheikh Sultan Al Qasimi’s theatrical works are true hallmarks of his great intellect
Moderated by Muhammad Majid Al Suwaidi, two sessions to discuss a selection of the most notable works of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Al Qasimi were organised in Cása Árabe in Madrid and in Cordoba.
Emirati actor and producer, Ahmed Al Jasmi; actor and theatre researcher Lola Botello; and Spanish writer and playwright Julieta Soria, led the discussions, which began with a video presentation of His Highness’ works including Nimrod, Holaku’s Return, Reality .. A True Copy, The Case, Alexander the Great, Mighty Samson, Da’esh (ISIS) and Al Ghabra’a, and The Book of Allah: A Play on The Conflict between Light and Darkness.
Cordoba session
Speaking about the plays, Al Jasmi said: “The theatrical works of the Ruler of Sharjah are based on historical events, not just as a narration of the past, but also to provide context to the incidents. History gives us the opportunity to learn from past mistakes, and helps us understand the many reasons why people may behave the way they do. Most importantly, His Highness very subtly urges us to heed the lessons that history teaches us so as not to repeat past mistakes which can lead to chaos, confusion and even disintegration of nations.”
He added: “His Highness’ theatrical works highlight his great command over the language and precise use of words to convey a point. They are great examples of the Sharjah Ruler’s facility with words and demonstrate his love for the art form.”
For her part, Botello said: “I was very impressed with the Spanish translations of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Al Qasimi’s theatrical works which are true hallmarks of his great intellect. They convey a wealth of knowledge and address many issues related to the human experience and existence. I am truly honoured to participate in this event.”
She added: “The Sharjah Ruler’s concerns regarding history, its influence on the present and holding a key to the future finds resonance in many Spanish plays which focus on individuals and humanity, and reject violence, racism and injustice. What is striking about His Highness’ plays is the focus on the tragic consequences of wars. I recommend everyone to read His Highness’ plays to appreciate the delicate manner in which topics of war and terrorism have been handled.”
She concluded by urging Spanish and Arab playwrights to explore each other’s literature and collaborate on projects that can advance their craft.
Julieta Soria presented a comparative study of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Al Qasimi’s plays and the works of Spanish playwrights. She emphasised the Sharjah Ruler’s precise use of words to convey philosophical ideas and the skillful use of history to voice his concerns about freedom and justice. She specifically referred to the theme of Nimrod and the Black Stone, which echoed in several Spanish plays.
She also noted that HH Sheikh Dr. Sultan Al Qasimi’s works reference cultures, history and mythology while highlighting the injustices caused by wars – a common theme in Spanish theatre. The playwright concluded with the observation that the Sharjah Ruler’s plays offered valuable reflections on political crises and social conflicts.
Nimrod
Sharjah Ruler’s efforts in supporting the Emirati and Arab theatre
The Sharjah Ruler’s love and support has hugely elevated Emirati and Arab theatre, said Al Jasmi, adding that the Arab Theatre Institute, established under the directives of His Highness, has grown the art form through several theatre festivals.
The Emirati author noted that the idea for the Arab Theatre Institute was born when HH Sheikh Dr Sultan Al Qasimi attended World Theatre Day celebrations in Paris in 2007 in the presence of playwrights from several Arab countries.
The discussion’s attendees noted that His Highness’ works had been staged in Sweden, Madrid, Romania, France, Italy, Moscow and several other countries. They called for translating more of HH Sheikh Dr. Sultan Al Qasimi’s plays into Spanish to enrich Spain’s literary scene and boost cultural exchange with Spanish-speaking countries. Spanish is the official language of 22 countries and is spoken by 567 million people.
Speaking about Sharjah Literary Days, HE Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri said: “Nations and people share histories. Only books can bring out cultural commonalities and present them as a platform for building relationships and cooperation. In alignment with the vision of the Ruler of Sharjah, SBA continues to partner with the world’s leading cultural organisations based on the core belief that culture unites nations and people and lays the foundation for a bright future.”
He added: “The Sharjah Ruler’s theatrical works are celebrated globally with renewed enthusiasm every year. Today, Madrid and Cordoba’s appreciation of Sheikh Dr. Sultan’s contributions to the Arab and international theatre reveal the depth of historical and cultural bonds between Arabs and Spaniards. It is also a tribute to Sharjah Ruler’s humanitarian values and positive messages that are embedded in his works.”
For his part, HE Majid Al Suwaidi said SBA’s continuous efforts to make Arabic literature globally accessible by sponsoring international translation projects is commendable. This included the Spanish translations of the Sharjah Ruler’s literary works, which had been gifted to the Islamic Library of the Spanish Agency for International Cooperation for Development, which operates under the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The black stone
He added: “Sharjah’s leading efforts have led to a strengthening of cultural relations between Spain and the UAE, increasing cooperation between their cultural institutions.”
For his part, Bachar Yaghi said: “I am honoured to be in Cása Árabe and privileged to learn about Sharjah’s leading cultural efforts under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan Al Qasimi. The emirate has taken an effective lead in the Arab world to promoting cultural dialogue internationally. Today’s gathering – this great cultural exchange that has showcased Arabic and Emirati literature to Spain and other Spanish-speaking countries of the world – is a fruit of these efforts.”
He praised the consistent and far-sighted efforts of His Highness in promoting multifaceted cultural dialogues between Arabs and the rest of the world, which has resulted in the birth of an important body of creative and artistic works.
Yaghi also said that the UAE’s leadership was successfully upholding the friendship initiated by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The late UAE President had believed that culture was the foundation for development and a bright future, and the UAE had proved the farsightedness of his vision by developing it into a successful model of progress, love and advancement.
SILA signs 120 agreements with authors and publishers
With the signing of the new agreements, SILA will step up efforts to safeguard the intellectual property rights of publishers and writers…reports Asian Lite News
The Sharjah International Literary Agency (SILA) has signed 120 agreements with authors and publishers during the Sharjah Book Authority’s (SBA) participation at the 20th edition of the Amman International Book Fair which concluded recently in the Jordanian capital.
The first-of-its-kind literary agency in the UAE and the region, SILA was launched in October 2020 by SBA to facilitate communication among publishers, authors, translators and creatives, and regulate their operations in line with prevailing official frameworks.
SILA signs 120 agreements with authors and publishers
With the signing of the new agreements, SILA will step up efforts to safeguard the intellectual property rights of publishers and writers alike are protected, in addition to stimulating the Arabic publishing market, while also promoting Arabic literary and cultural content globally.
The SBA pavilion at the book fair in Amman welcomed large numbers of visitors, officials, and VIP’s, including Ali Al Ayed, Minister of Culture in Jordan, who was received by Fadel Hussein Bussaim, Director of SBA in the Eastern Region. During his visit, the minister was presented with a copy of The Inquisition, authored by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and published by Al Qasimi Publications.
FADEL HUSSEIN BUSSAIM, DIRECTOR, EASTERN REGION,SBA: “the authority is keen on strengthening its regional presence and extend wholehearted support to Emirati authors and publishers by showcasing their works at various regional and international cultural events, as these efforts support the goals of the emirate’s cultural project as envisioned by the Ruler of Sharjah that aims to build bridges between cultures and nations. The 120 agreements align with SILA’s goals to support publishers and authors in the region mark their foray into international markets and connect them with their counterparts around the world.”
SILA signs 120 agreements with authors and publishers
The Director praised the visitor turnout at the Amman International Book Fair and the exceptional footfall experienced at the SBA pavilion. He pointed out that the high influx of reading enthusiasts and the soaring demand for books are clear indicators of recovery following the setbacks experienced by the regional publishing sector during the COVID-19 pandemic.
An important literary and cultural event in the Arab region, the 20th edition of the Amman International Book Fair saw the participation of more than 360 publishers from 20 countries and hosted several panel discussions, seminars, and book signing ceremonies.
SIFF presents 48 films curated for young audiences
Patrons will watch 48 exciting films across seven categories that will premiere exclusively at the eighth edition, unveiling on 10th October, reports Asian Lite News
Young movie buffs in the region and beyond are in for a true cinematic treat this year at the Sharjah International Film Festival for Children and Youth (SIFF).
Patrons will watch 48 exciting films across seven categories that will premiere exclusively at the eighth edition, unveiling on 10th October, 2021.
SIFF presents 48 films curated for young audiences
SIFF 2021 will be screening six films making their world premieres and four being screened for the first time for the UAE audiences. The festival will also be the launch pad for 34 films in the Middle East and four in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) circuit.
Organised by FUNN, Sharjah Media Arts for Youth and Children, in a fully online format this year, SIFF will be streaming more than 80 diverse films across six days. The films are free to watch and can be accessed by registering at: www.siff.ae.
Two homegrown films, “Childhood Trauma” by the UAE-based Safa Azarayesh that compels us to connect the dots of childhood trauma with adulthood and is competing in the GCC Short Films category, and Sarah Al Ali’s “Don’t Give Up” that reinforces the need to persevere even when things seem difficult – headline the six films that will have their world premieres at SIFF 2021.
The other four include “The First Line”, in Russian by Kate Bugrova; the Arabic film “Opportunity” by Saudi Arabian Fahad Alotaibi, which narrates a game of life and death; the emotionally resonant Persian film, “Sweet Taste of Darkness” by Mitra Raeesmohammadi, and Kazakh film “Shoqan” that explores the reality of truth, and directed by Kuka.
SIFF presents 48 films curated for young audiences
“Last Round”, an animated short that has been gaining fame and popularity for its universal story of sibling love, is among the 34 films that will have their Middle East premiere.
A graduation project of Anatole Bournique, Maeva Chaulvet, Katia Hochstetter, Nicolas Jaffre, and Thais Mercier, students of the Goerges Melies School of Animation, France, the film narrates the story of a promising young boxer who is willing to do anything to finance the future of his little sister, a piano prodigy.
SIFF presents 48 films curated for young audiences
For the first time, the four films being shown in the GCC include the Russian animated film directed by Ekaterina Filippova, “The Little Boat that Wanted to Fly”. Winner of the Best Children’s Film Award at the 2020 World Festival of Animated Film (WFAF), it narrates a touching story about inclusion – a boat that does not fit in with others because it wants to fly.
The other films include “The Orphanage”, a captivating drama about an Afghan teen in trouble by Shahrbanoo Sadat; “In My Dream”, a Turkish tale of chasing dreams by Murat Ceri; and the Arabic film “Barcode” where commercialism and innocence intersect by Saudi Arabia’s Muhammad Alghamdi.
SIFF presents 48 films curated for young audiences
Award winner at Cannes Independent Film Festival among UAE premieres Kazakh director Alina Mustafina’s film “Ander” which won the special jury prize at the Cannes Independent Film Festival as well as the Best Documentary Film Award at Qatar’s Ajyal Film Festival in 2020, will be among the four films to open for the first time in the UAE.
Journalist, writer, and filmmaker Mustafina’s short documentary shares the story of her five-year-old boy Ander, who suffers from a very rare dairy allergy. He is an active and joyful kid but he has to eat separately from his classmates at school and brings his own cake to parties due to his allergic conditions.
The other films include “Comfortable Position”, a film centred on the theme of dreams and sleep and made by a group of 8 to 12-year-old children from Uzbekistan, and “Al-Sit” by Suzannah Mirghani; and Saudi Arabian director Mohammed Atabani’s Block.
Sharjah Crown Prince praises efforts to prepare for 'Shaheen'
The work teams had shown high professionalism in developing proactive plans to deal with crises to save lives and reduce potential damage…reports Asian Lite News
Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and Chairman of Sharjah Executive Council (SEC), praised the concerted efforts of the work teams in government agencies, lauding their readiness and preparedness to face crises, especially in dealing with tropical cyclone “Shaheen”.
He stressed that the work teams had shown high professionalism in developing proactive plans to deal with crises to save lives and reduce potential damage.
H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah
He said this during the meeting of the Sharjah Executive Council chaired by Sheikh Sultan, which was held on Tuesday morning at the Ruler’s Office, in the presence of H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah.
On Teacher’s Day, the Crown Prince thanked all the teachers, on the occasion of Teachers’ Day, appreciating their vital role in building societies by educating the generations and graduating batches of intellectuals and specialists in all fields.
He praised the role of workers in the educational system, including teachers, administrators and assistants, and their efforts in dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic and the rapid transformation of distance learning and adapting to all its cases.
The council has further discussed several topics on its agenda related to developing government work, providing the emirate with the best services and vital facilities, and raising the standard of decent living for Sharjah residents.
As part of the continuous development of the infrastructure sectors and in conjunction with the comprehensive development in the emirate, the council approved the smart traffic control project to develop the traffic light system in the emirate using the latest technologies and international systems in the field of traffic.
This will facilitate traffic flow by checking and identifying traffic jams, prioritising traffic and reducing waiting time by up to 20 percent.
The new project will also make traffic smoother, increase safety levels, reduce collisions, cut pollution levels by reducing carbon emissions from the traffic stops.
Sharjah Crown Prince praises efforts to prepare for ‘Shaheen’
The council reviewed the report on the performance of the general budget and the outputs of activities for the second quarter of 2021 submitted by the Central Finance Department to follow up the performance of the general budget and work to develop it and improve its aspects and outputs.
The report included graphic indicators of the general budget and tables comparing revenues and expenditures for the second quarter of 2021 for government agencies and independent bodies in the emirate.
The report also included the actual spending ratios for each sector of social development, government administration, infrastructure and economic development.
The council approved the list of candidates for the sixth batch of the professional diploma for child protection, which comes in cooperation between the Social Services Department and the University of Sharjah.
The professional diploma programme contributes to developing the skills of graduates working in child protection and benefitting from the programme’s outputs to deal with modern social phenomena and situations.
This year’s edition of the show includes national pavilions for a number of world-leading countries in the gold industry, such as Italy, Hong Kong, India, Singapore, and Thailand…reports Asian Lite News
The 48th edition of the Watch and Jewellery Middle East Show (WJMES), organised by the Expo Centre Sharjah with the support of the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), will kick off today with the participation of nearly 300 exhibitors of world-leading companies of the watch and jewellery design and manufacturing, alongside the participation of local jewellers and Emirati designers.
EXPO 2020
Spanning over an area of 30,000 square metres, this year’s edition of the show includes national pavilions for a number of world-leading countries in the gold industry, such as Italy, Hong Kong, India, Singapore, and Thailand.
The event is also featuring leading companies and famous brands from the USA, the UK, Bahrain, China, Canada, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Lithuania, Pakistan, Yemen, Turkey, Brazil and Malta, in addition to dozens of Emirati companies.
Apart from being a perfect platform to ink deals and forge partnerships, the WJMES showcases products of jewellery, gemstones, pearls, and watches inspired by contemporary trends, traditions, and different cultures around the world with the possibility of direct purchase.
For the first time, the Emirati Jewellers Group will present a number of introductory workshops on the art and craft of making jewellery, including the art of electrochemical etching on metals, the art of sawing metal and inlaying stones, and methods of drawing and colouring gemstones.
The Museum experience at Sharjah’s Mleiha Archaeological Centre is such an opportunity, that a travel enthusiast should never miss…reports Asian Lite News
It might be still summer. But in UAE, there is always a way to get a little culture, adventure, and education without going out to the scorching sun. The Museum experience at Sharjah’s Mleiha Archaeological Centre is such an opportunity, that a travel enthusiast should never miss.
Mleiha Archaeological Centre
The museum tour at the Mleiha Archaeological Centre will give visitors a first-hand glimpse into the golden past of the region. Located inside the visitors centre which is built around a massive tomb from the Bronze Age Umm An Nar culture, the museum hosts plenty of multimedia displays, exhibits, interactive displays, artifacts, and information points that bring history to life that goes a long way to explain Mleiha’ s historic importance.
The visitors will be able to see for themselves what it was like to live in the region thousands of years ago and to learn about the unique archaeological environment of Mleiha and the pre-historic sites in the Mleiha, Jabal Bu’hais, and Jabal Faya regions of Sharjah.
Umm Al Nar Tomb Mleiha
For kids and adults who want to engage further in archaeological learning, the destination offers specially designed educational packages like ‘The Fossil Hunt Expedition’ and ‘Sounds of the past’, which teaches the art of making fossil casts using actual fossils found in Mleiha and of making stone tools just as humans did thousands of years ago. The ticket price of packages, which includes the museum entry, starts from AED 25 for children (6-15 Years) and AED 40 for adults.
The heritage and cultural destination, operated by Sharjah Investment and development authority (Shurooq) also provide visitors an opportunity to enjoy unique desert experiences; including archaeological tours, stargazing, trekking, camping, dune bashing, and thrilling buggy adventures.
HRH Prince Turki Al Faisal is Guest of Honour at IGCF 2021
His Royal Highness (HRH) Prince Turki Al Faisal, Founder and Trustee of the King Faisal Foundation and Chairman of the King Faisal Center for Research and Islamic Studies, will be the guest of honour at the 10th International Government Communication Forum (IGCF)…reports Asian Lite News
His Royal Highness (HRH) Prince Turki Al Faisal, Founder and Trustee of the King Faisal Foundation and Chairman of the King Faisal Center for Research and Islamic Studies, will be the guest of honour at the 10th International Government Communication Forum (IGCF), where he will deliver a keynote address during the opening ceremony on September 26, 2021. The two-day forum will run under the theme ‘Historic lessons, Future ambitions’, at Sharjah Expo Centre.
HRH Prince Turki AlFaisal
Al Faisal boasts extensive experience in government communications regionally and internationally and is a leading figure supporting the Arab and Islamic culture. He also dedicates himself to furthering regional causes on global platforms. He has held several important posts in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) and received numerous awards and honorary degrees. His participation in IGCF 2021 aligns with the forum’s goal to learn from leading Arab visionaries and thinkers, and benefit from their vast experience.
The 10th edition of IGCF organised by the Sharjah Governmnent Media Bureau (SGMB), brings together 79 communication experts from 11 Arab and foreign countries to discuss innovative crisis management mechanisms and determine the future of government communication.
Featuring an extensive agenda, the highlights of IGCF 2021 include 31 events featuring 7 panel discussions, 5 inspirational talks, 7 training workshops, and 12 interactive programmes that focus on the historical experience of government communication, discuss its current realities, and envision its future on regional and international levels 10 years after the inaugural edition of the forum.
Sharjah explores new synergies with Belgium’s creative industries
Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Government Relations (DGR) in Sharjah, has recently concluded a key exchange with HE Peter Claes, Ambassador of Belgium to the UAE, on ways to strengthen Sharjah–Belgium cooperation in a variety of emerging sectors, particularly in the creative industries, which have been flourishing in the emirate…reports Asian Lite News
The meeting was also attended by Sheikh Majid Al Qasimi, Director of DGR, where both parties explored new avenues of collaboration, which have opened following the launch of several development projects in Sharjah’s picturesque eastern enclave of Khorfakkan, which presents new and exciting opportunities for Belgian businesses, most notably in the tourism, retail and hospitality sectors.
Sharjah explores new synergies with Belgium’s creative industries
During the meeting, Sheikh Fahim underlined Sharjah’s enthusiasm for organising orientation tours for Belgian delegations to help them explore the myraid opportunities the emirate offers across the sectors of culture, art, education, trade, investment innovation, the environment, and more.
“Sharjah and Belgium share a long-standing friendship. And here in our emirate, we believe that nations do not achieve comprehensive development in isolation. Global collaboration, cooperation and exchange bring out every city’s fullest potential, which is why we consider this visit by HE Claes as an exciting opportunity to usher in a new phase of cooperation between Sharjah and Belgian cities, particularly in sectors with potential for sustainable and mutual gains,” said the DGR Chairman.
Sharjah explores new synergies with Belgium’s creative industries
For his part, HE Peter Claes lauded DGR’s proactive efforts to host the meeting, and stressed that the discussion’s action-oriented conclusions would pave the way for a new era of cooperation between the two sides in a variety of key sectors – both existing and emerging. He added that Sharjah had particularly impressive opportunities in the creative industries, the environment, tourism and logistics services.
HE Abdullah Sultan Al Owais, Chairman, SCCI, with Arabi Abubakarov, Deputy Chairman of the International Relations Committee,
The Emirate of Sharjah’s trade mission to Russia concluded its work by holding several meetings with officials from representatives of government agencies and private companies in Saint Petersburg…reports Asian Lite News
The mission, which is part of Sharjah Week in Russia from 6-12 September, was led by the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce & Industry (SCCI) represented by the Sharjah Exports Development Center (SCCI).
The last stop was in Saint Petersburg, where HE Abdullah Sultan Al Owais, Chairman, SCCI, met with Arabi Abubakarov, Deputy Chairman of the International Relations Committee, Konstantin Sokhenko, Chairman of the Culture Committee, and representatives of the Committee on Industrial Policies, Innovations, and Trade in St. Petersburg.
Sharjah’s trade mission to Russia concludes
During the meeting, the two sides discussed several topics of mutual interest and emphasized the need to double efforts to restructure laws and regulations that spur investment, especially after the Covid-19 pandemic.
They also highlighted the importance of enhancing cultural cooperation between Sharjah and Saint Petersburg by strengthening the communication between relevant government institutions and bodies.
In the meantime, the Sharjah Chamber invited Saint Petersburg to participate as a guest of honor in the 50th Watch & Jewelry Middle East and Show (WJMES) which is set to take place in April 2022.
The participants also agreed to develop a mechanism for exchanging information, visits and trade delegations, especially small and medium companies in order to support this vital sector.
Abdullah Sultan Al Owais shed light on the tourist, cultural and economic factors, and the investment climate of the Emirate of Sharjah, in addition to the so many competitive advantages which makes Sharjah an ideal environment for Russian businessmen, not to mention its strategic location which makes it an important gateway to various countries in the region.
He pointed to the importance of the role of the SEDC in establishing trade and investment partnerships to enhance the exports of the members of the Sharjah Chamber, exploring new markets to expand their business, forging fruitful investment partnerships, and promoting high-quality Emirati products.
The Saint Petersburg Chamber of Commerce and Industry witnessed a consultative meeting attended by Abdullah Sultan Al Owais, Members of the Chamber’s delegation, Vladimir Katnev, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Saint Petersburg Chamber of Commerce, and Elena Zeltukina, Vice President of the Chamber.
Sharjah’s trade mission to Russia concludes
The attendees emphasized the need to join forces in order to support the development of areas of economic cooperation between the UAE in general, Sharjah in particular, and Russia.
In the same meeting, the SCCI received an official invitation to participate in the Saint Petersburg Chamber’s celebrations marking the centenary of its establishment, which is set to take place next November.
Abdullah Sultan Al Owais: “We have fruitful partnerships and strong cooperation with the Saint Petersburg Chamber. We look forward to strengthening joint efforts to benefit from the rewarding investment opportunities in the industrial and commercial sectors and other sectors, relying on the organization of such missions.
He also stressed the importance of making the most of the bilateral relations between the Emirate of Sharjah and the historic city of Saint Petersburg by organizing many joint cultural events.
For his part, Vladimir Katanaev expressed his pleasure to meet the SCCI delegation once again, lauding the existing partnership relations between the Sharjah and Saint Petersburg Chambers over the past years.
He added that Russia’s participation in Expo 2020 Dubai will be an opportunity to hold business meetings, especially those that will be organized by the UAE-Russia Business Council.
Sharjah’s trade mission to Russia concludes
Katanaev said that Saint Petersburg is one of the Russian tourist cities, where it received during the past few months more than 4,000 tourists from the UAE, while about 73,000 tourists visited the UAE from Saint Petersburg.
He expressed his country’s welcome to Emirati investors to visit the city to learn about its investment components in vital sectors such as international navigation, agriculture, industry, and advanced technology.
Bilateral meetings were also held between the businessmen participating in the delegation of the Sharjah Chamber mission and their counterparts in Saint Petersburg, who made presentations on the investment opportunities and advantages they enjoy, with the aim to establish partnerships that serve the private sector, increase the volume of trade exchange, and develop projects in various sectors.
