Spanish archaeological mission discovers two adjacent tombs in Egypt
A Spanish archaeological mission discovered two adjacent tombs in Egypt’s Minya Governorate dating back to the Saite Dynasty (664 BC-525 BC), the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities in Cairo announced…reports Asian Lite News
The mission from the University of Barcelona found the remains of two unknown persons with gold tongues in one of the tombs, Xinhua news agency quoted Mostafa Waziri, secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, as saying in a statement on Sunday.
Inside the tomb, he said, a coffin made of limestone with a cover in the form of a woman was found, adding the remains of an unknown person were also found next to the coffin.
Spanish archaeological mission discovers two adjacent tombs in Egypt
Preliminary studies on the tomb revealed that it was previously opened in ancient times, Waziri pointed out.
Meanwhile, the second tomb was completely closed and the mission opened it for the first time during the excavations.
Director of excavations of the mission, Hassan Amer, said the mission found at the second tomb a limestone coffin with a human face in a good condition of preservation, in addition to two coffins containing canopic pots.
“One of the pots contained 402 Ushabti figurines made of faience, a set of small amulets and green beads,” he added.
Egypt has witnessed several large-scale archaeological discoveries in recent years in different parts of the country, including pharaonic tombs, statues, coffins and mummies.
World School Chess Tournament finals to be held at Expo 2020 Dubai
The Spain Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai is hosting the World School Chess Tournament from 25th to 29th November…reports Asian Lite NEWS
About 108 young participants from 10 countries, grouped in 12 teams, are the finalists of the one-year event initiated with 2,600 contestants from over 54 countries.
World Champion Magnus Carlsen from Norway and his opponent Ian Niepómniachi from Russia have confirmed their presence and will pose with the 108 finalists. In addition, the world’s best chess player in history, Judit Polgar from Hungary will do the kick-off on 25th November, according to the organisers.
World School Chess Tournament finals to be held at Expo 2020 Dubai
The tournament will be arbitrated by Javier Pérez Llera under the supervision of the Spain Pavilion’s Executive Commissioner, Carmen Bueno. The technical director of the tournament is Marcelino Sión.
Speaking on the occasion, Leontxo García, Spain Chess commissioner said, “To achieve 2,600 players under the age of 16, from 54 countries in 2020, with the majority of schools in the world closed, was not an easy task. However, being one of the few sports that can be practised online helped a lot in the middle of the pandemic”.
The twelve teams made up of five official members and four substitutes will be divided into two groups to play a one-round league. Among those 108 players are two of the world’s greatest chess promises from India: Rameshababu Praggnanandhaa, 16; and Dommaraju Gukesh, 15.
Participating in the first-ever world Expo hosted by an Arab country is a privilege that the Spain Pavilion wanted to honour by highlighting some of the historical links between the country and the Arab culture, such as chess.
Originally from the south Indian continent, Arabic chess arrived in Spain in the 8th century, where the modern one was developed at the end of the 15th century.
Visitors at the Pavilion will find a giant floorboard and several tables for them to play, all surrounded by a 22-metre wall that narrates the history of the game and its role in connecting the two cultures.
Chess as an educational tool will also be present at the education seminar co-organised by the Spanish Pavilion from December 14th to 16th.
The Spain Pavilion managed by Acción Cultural Española (AC / E) launched the World School Tournament in 2020 through Chess24, an international online chess platform that is in charge of bringing the telematics phase of the tournament, said the press release. (WAM)
Hamdan visits pavilions of Spain, Hungary, S Korea
Sheikh Hamdan said Expo 2020 represents a rare opportunity for the youth to learn about the latest innovations that are shaping the world’s future and draw inspiration from creative ideas…reports Asian Lite News
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council, today toured the pavilions of Spain, Hungary, and the Republic of Korea at Expo 2020.
Hamdan visits pavilions of Spain, Hungary, S Korea
Speaking during the tour, Sheikh Hamdan said Expo 2020 Dubai highlights the best of innovation and excellence achieved by countries across the world, particularly solutions to overcome the most pressing challenges that the global community faces in diverse sectors.
He said the mega international event hosted by Dubai represents a rare opportunity for the youth to learn about the latest innovations that are shaping the world’s future and draw inspiration from creative ideas that are driving sustainable development in vital fields.
During his visit to the pavilion of Spain, located in the Sustainability District, His Highness was briefed on its exhibits that highlight the rich productive and creative fabric of the country. Under the theme ‘Intelligence for life’, the Pavilion seeks to highlight the human capacity for innovation and the desire to preserve a good quality of life on the planet, both for current and future generations.
The Spain Pavilion also celebrates the country’s deep, age-old ties to the Arab world with an open, eco-friendly exhibition that seamlessly blends ancient heritage and cutting-edge innovation. A wide range of thought-provoking exhibits focus on how Spain is pioneering new education methods and fostering entrepreneurship. Spain’s commitment to sustainability is embodied in the pavilion itself, which is built from reusable materials.
Hamdan visits pavilions of Spain, Hungary, S Korea
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed also went on a tour of the Hungarian Pavilion located in the Jubilee area. Under the theme ‘Aqua Roots of Hungary’, the country’s Pavilion allows visitors to immerse themselves in a relaxing, healing and rehabilitative experience as the country spotlights its unique, mineral-rich thermal springs.
The Pavilion sheds light on the healing power of water and balneotherapy – the ancient treatment of ailments by bathing in thermal mineral waters. In an interactive exhibition that reveals the origins of Hungary’s thermal springs, visitors can soak up the country’s wellness and spa culture – and how it is buoying the country’s health tourism industry.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed also visited the Pavilion of the Republic of Korea, located in the Mobility District of Expo 2020, where he was introduced to an interactive smart experience that presents what the country offers the world.
National values presented through the Pavilion’s design include solidarity, dynamic thinking, a commitment to innovation and flexibility in the face of change. These traits are reflected in the pavilion’s facade, which constantly changes throughout the day.
The facade is made up of brightly coloured spinning cubes and puts on a spectacular display, reflecting the spirit of the Korean landscape. The five – storey building, one of the largest pavilions in Expo 2020, reflects Korea’s focus on technological development and its leadership in the Fourth Industrial Revolution, especially in artificial intelligence technologies.
Hamdan visits pavilions of Spain, Hungary, S Korea
Hamdan visits pavilions of Spain, Hungary, S Korea
Hamdan visits pavilions of Spain, Hungary, S Korea
Nadal expresses support for EVs at a vehicle handover ceremony in his hometown Manacor, where he was given a customized EV6…reports Asian Lite News
Tennis legend Rafael Nadal today signaled his commitment to promote ecofriendly mobility by increasing the use of Kia’s first dedicated EV, the new EV6 crossover, at a handover ceremony at the Rafa Nadal Academy in his Spanish hometown of Manacor, Mallorca.
Rafael Nadal and Kia SVP Artur Martins (center)
At the event, Nadal was provided with a customized EV6 GT-Line as a demonstration of the two longstanding partners’ shared vision for creating a better world and to inspire a new generation of drivers to embrace electric mobility. The ceremony followed the European launch of the EV6 crossover and served to highlight Kia’s new brand purpose – “Movement that inspires.”
In line with the commitment, Nadal will actively use the EV6 crossover for his personal mobility in Mallorca as well as at major tennis tournaments such as the 2022 Australian Open. Furthermore, he has expressed his interest to convert all vehicles used at the Rafa Nadal Academy and Rafa Nadal Foundation to electric vehicles by 2022.
“My job naturally requires a lot of travel, and my lifestyle is not fully sustainable. But I’m determined to make the necessary changes where I can, starting with my personal use of the EV6 crossover in Mallorca and beyond,” said Nadal at the event. “I feel lucky to have the support of Kia and the new EV6 that will help drive my commitment. I would like to encourage others to join me in driving these kind of vehicles wherever possible.”
The ceremony was illuminated by a tennis court, dubbed the “EV6 Court,” whose lighting system was electrically powered by a customized EV6 GT-Line. The first dedicated electrified crossover vehicle by Kia boasts an advanced V2L (vehicle-to-load) function and serves as a portable, self-generating power supply.
Rafael Nadal and new EV6
ARTUR MARTINS, SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, HEAD OF KIA’S GLOBAL BRAND AND CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE DIVISION: “We at Kia strongly believe in our ethos that movement inspires ideas. The EV6 is the model that embodies this new brand ethos of ours, and we feel privileged to have Rafa on our team as our global brand ambassador for the past 15 years. He is not only one of the greatest athletes in history but an icon of inspiration who constantly strives to make a positive impact in the world through his diverse social contribution activities.”
The EV6 crossover was launched to play a key role in Kia’s new vision to offer accessible, sustainable and innovative mobility solutions to people around the world. It represents a pioneering solution for future electrified mobility and aims to elevate the industry standard at a time the automotive world at large is quickly transitioning toward full electrification. The EV6’s vehicle-to-load (V2L) function demonstrated at the EV6 Court of the Rafa Nadal Academy can supply up to 3.6KW of electricity and be used conveniently as a portable power supply for leisure and other everyday activities.
The artist will perform to the sound of guitarists, and ‘cajon’ box player…reports Asian Lite News
The Spain Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai is delighted to announce the next event in its rich cultural programme, which will feature a performance by double Latin Grammy nominee, Spanish composer, musician, singer and producer, Rosario La Tremendita, at the Dubai Millennium Amphitheatre next Sunday, 24th October at 20:00.
Visitors will have the opportunity to witness a unique flamenco fusion performance ‘La Tremenda’, Rosario’s latest and most intimate concert that delves into the most absolute sound experimentation without losing sight of the traditional flamenco essence.
Spain Pavilion brings medieval music to Expo
The artist will perform to the sound of guitarists, and ‘cajon’ box players; surrounded by the exquisite moves of flamenco dancers flying in from Spain to participate in this enchanted spectacle.
As part of the cultural agenda at The Spain Pavilion, this October will also see prominence flamenco and contemporary dancer and choreographer, Olga Pericet with her show ‘La espina que quiso ser flor’, on 28th and 29th October.
With four albums and two Latin Grammy Awards nominations for the “Best Flamenco Album”, La Tremendita has become, according to critics, one of the great innovators of current flamenco and an icon of the new times of the “jondo” deepest vocal form of flamenco music.
The Spain Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai presents a cultural programme with the presence of 32 Spanish companies, more than 200 artists and close to 100 performances, which will take place both in the Spain Pavilion and on the main stages of the Expo site (Jubilee Stage, Terra Auditorium, Dubai Millennium Amphitheatre, Earth Stage).
Last week, the Spanish National Day celebration was held at the Spain pavilion. More than 350 people attended the event, which was hosted by Spanish Ambassador Iñigo de Palacio España, Carmen Bueno, Deputy Commissioner General of the Spain Pavilion, and Guillermo Cobelo Fernández, President of the Spanish Business Council (SBC).
Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner General of the Spain Pavilion invited the Spanish community and all the guests to visit the Pavilion and enjoy more than 100 performances organised during the next six months.
“During the Expo, the Spain Pavilion has organised a very rich cultural and specialized programme of activities and events. This programme opened with the flamenco singer Miguel Poveda, and currently the musical group Artefactum is playing in different venues of the Expo,” said Bueno.
Priyanka is busy shooting for her thriller web show ‘Citadel’, which is being created by Russo Brothers…reports Asian Lite News.
Actor Priyanka Chopra Jonas had a great weekend amidst the marine life as she went scuba diving into the azure blue waters of Spain. Taking to Instagram, Priyanka posted a string of images and videos from her scuba diving session. She also shared that she was able to relieve her stress by exploring the “glorious underwater creations of God.”
“There are days when the stress just needs to be silenced! What better way to do that than to explore the glorious underwater creations of God? I was very honoured that the camera crew from Citadel let me crash their party! Big shoutout to the @alisubbuceo team. Penelope, Victor, Alejandro and everyone else, thank you for such a magical experience.
I really needed it!! Thank you @tsigel for taking us out! So fun hanging with Sam, Paul, Josh, Tobias, Andy, Christina and Victor.Sunday well done! PS: @franklinjonas so happy you’re here,” she captioned the post. Priyanka also posted a few more pictures and videos of her scuba-diving experience on her Instagram stories. In one of the images, she can be seen laughing wholeheartedly.
“A much needed day in the ocean,” she wrote alongside the picture. Meanwhile, on the work front, Priyanka is busy shooting for her thriller web show ‘Citadel‘, which is being created by Russo Brothers. (ANI)
The Spain Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai is bringing the unique and distinctive sounds of the country’s medieval music to the event…reports Asian Lite News
The Spain Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai is bringing the unique and distinctive sounds of the country’s medieval music to the event, performed by Artefactum, one of the most distinguished ensembles of early Spanish music.
Expo 2020 Dubai
There will be two performances open to the public: one on Wednesday, 13th October, at the Sun Stage at 18:00, and the other on Thursday, 14th October, at the Terra Auditorium at 18:30.
Through a dramatic stage concept, and using ancient instruments that help portray the intrinsic beauty of original compositions, Artefactum takes audiences on a journey through the medieval age: we pass noisy taverns, feel the reclusion of the monasteries, walk country roads and market streets – all courtesy of the musical exploration that unfolds.
The medieval music performances are among the many events lined up by the Spain Pavilion, which celebrates smart creativity – uniting people around sustainable projects in the fields of science, technology, production, education and art.
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.
Miguel Poveda to launch the cultural programme for Spain Pavilion…reports Asian Lite News
The Spain Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai will start its cultural programme on Friday with a performance by the flamenco singer Miguel Poveda, who will perform on the Jubilee Stage.
Poveda, with more than 14 albums and many awards, will sing a song with Yemeni artist Arwa Online.
EXPO 2020
The Spanish star has been awarded the ‘National Music Prize’ (2007); the ‘Music Culture Prize in Catalonia’ (2011); the ‘Medal of Andalucia’ and the ‘Chair of Flamencology prize’.
The Spain Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai presents a cultural program with 32 Spanish companies, more than 200 artists and close to 100 performances, which will take place both in the Spain Pavilion and on the main stages of the Expo site (Jubilee Stage, Terra Auditorium, Dubai Millenium Amphitheater, Earth Stage) as well as two performances in the framework of the Sharjah Book Fair, in which Spain is the Guest Country of Honor.
MoS Lekhi also delivered a talk on India’s overseas Development Assistance programme, during this interaction…reports Asian Lite News.
India and Spain undertook a comprehensive review of bilateral relations, especially after the Covid-19 hiatus, during Minister of State (MoS) for External Affairs Meenakshi Lekhi’s visit to the country.
During her visit to Spain from September 14-17, MoS Lekhi called on Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares; met her counterpart, Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs Ángeles Moreno Bau; and had consultations with Secretary of State for International Affairs Pilar Cancela Rodriguez.
The Spanish Foreign Minister Albares and Secretary of State Moreno thanked MoS Lekhi for India’s approval to source 56 Airbus C295 military transport aircrafts from Spain and said that this agreement qualitatively enhanced relations between the two countries, said a Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) press release.
According to the release, the situation in Afghanistan was discussed.
Both sides agreed to hasten negotiations towards an early conclusion of the Civil Nuclear Agreement, it stated.
They also acknowledged support to each other during the worst phase of the Covid-19 pandemic, the statement added. The increasing mutual support in election to international bodies was also noted with satisfaction, it informed.
Lekhi conveyed that India looked forward to the visit of the Spanish FM to India at a mutually convenient time to prepare for a subsequent visit by the Spanish President to India, the statement mentioned.
MoS Lekhi met members of the Spain-India Council Foundation to further economic relations between the two countries.
MoS Lekhi also delivered a talk on India’s overseas Development Assistance programme, during this interaction.
In her talk the MoS shared India’s philosophy of international development cooperation and the extent of assistance extended to different parts of the world, it added.
She visited Casa de la India in Valladolid, a PPP model supported by ICCR, the statement informed.
MoS Lekhi inaugurated the Beatles and India exhibition at Casa de la India.
She also met the Board Members of the Casa de la India over a working lunch hosted by the Mayor of Valladolid.
Cooperation with the Cervantes Institute of Spain was discussed with Secretary for International Cooperation along with cooperation in Film making, Sports and Science and Technology, it highlighted.
Both sides also congratulated each other for the recent inscription of Kakatiya Temples, as well as Paseo Del Prado and Buen Retiró In the UNESCO Word Heritage List, the statement continued.
Addressed Spain India Council Foundation members on India’s Developmental Cooperation. Interacted with important stakeholders from India and Spain during the hybrid event & highlighted India’s human-centric development assistance, focusing on local capacity building.@Spain_Indiapic.twitter.com/FKpYKw4jCI
MoS Lekhi also briefed the Spanish side on India’s ongoing celebrations to mark 75 Years of its Independence, it added. During her visit, she also engaged with the Indian Diaspora at a Community Reception hosted in her honour.
She had a focussed interaction with Indologists, ICCR Alumni, practitioners of Indian performing arts and dances and Indo-philes, it said.
MoS also participated in a Yoga Master class at the Indian Embassy along with Spanish Yoga teachers and practitioners, the statement said. (India News Network)
