Cairo: Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, the 21st Sharjah Narrative Forum commenced in Egypt, themed 'The Novel and Artificial Intelligence.' The event spans two days and features over 60 creatives, including novelists, short story writers, academics, and critics from Egypt and the Arab world, who will engage in four main discussion tracks for critical analysis and reflection.
According to Emirates News Agency, the opening ceremony took place at the Cairo Opera House, attended by Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Owais, Chairman of Sharjah's Department of Culture; Dr Ashraf Al Azazi, Secretary-General of Egypt's Supreme Council of Culture; Mohammed Ibrahim Al Qusayr, Director of Cultural Affairs at the Department and Director of the Forum; alongside a host of intellectuals, academics, and literary enthusiasts. An exhibition accompanying the opening showcased Sharjah Department of Culture publications, drawing notable public interest.
Abdullah Al Owais, in his opening speech, expressed delight at gathering to celebrate creativity at the forum. He underscored Sharjah's recognition of literature as both an aesthetic art and a bridge for communication, a memory preserving identity, and a broad horizon for dialogue. He also highlighted the significance of rotating the forum among Arab countries, creating spaces for exchanging visions and exploring the future of narrative.
Al Owais noted that hosting the forum in Cairo adds cultural depth and reflects Sharjah's desire to expand cultural cooperation with Egypt. He emphasised that the forum's convening in Cairo merges authenticity with a renewing present, forming a broader vision for the future of Arab narrative. He also expressed gratitude to Egypt's Ministry of Culture for its role in fostering Arab culture and facilitating cultural activities.
Dr Ashraf Al Azazi welcomed attendees, highlighting the support of H.H. Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi for culture, thought, and literature. He noted the Ruler's cultural vision, which has established a significant Arab and global cultural project. Al Azazi further emphasised that Egypt welcomes Sharjah, creating an open space for intellectuals, thinkers, artists, and creatives from across the Arab world.
The forum's first day featured sessions discussing 'The Novel: From Orality to Artificial Intelligence,' with writers sharing personal reflections on their creative journeys and discussing intellectual and artistic development.