Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre Strengthens Cultural Ties At Beijing Book Fair 2024

The Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC) is set to participate in the 30th Beijing International Book Fair (BIBF 2024), scheduled from 19th to 23rd June in Beijing. This event, recognised as the largest cultural gathering in Asia, aims to bolster ties with China's publishing and cultural sectors.

The ALC's participation seeks to promote its projects and programmes, explore bilateral cooperation opportunities, and establish effective partnerships with key Chinese entities in the creative industries. Notably, the ALC will be the first Arab institution to sign a strategic cooperation protocol with the China International Publishing Group (CIPG).

The Centre's agenda includes panel discussions, seminars, and professional meetings. Additionally, the ALC will undertake several visits and sign cooperation agreements, aligning with the UAE’s vision of cultural openness and enhancing Abu Dhabi’s cultural standing.

Dr. Ali bin Tamim, Chairman of the ALC, emphasised the importance of participating in BIBF. He stated, "The Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre is committed to participating in the Beijing International Book Fair, a major global platform based in Asia that brings together notable international attendees from the publishing and cultural sectors."

Expanding Partnerships

Dr. bin Tamim highlighted China as a key partner for the ALC. He noted that Chinese participation in the recent Abu Dhabi International Book Fair was their largest at any international fair, underscoring the event's significance among Chinese cultural and publishing institutions.

The ALC Chairman will attend the launch event for the China Academic Book Series. The exhibition will feature a panel discussion titled "Between Arabic and Chinese: Language and Civilisational Communication", showcasing the Centre’s role in supporting the Arabic language.

Engagement with Chinese Institutions

The exhibition is organised in collaboration with the Chinese International Media Group and will see attendance from influential figures in China's publishing industry. The ALC delegation will also participate in the Arab-Chinese Publishers Forum to explore new technologies in publishing such as artificial intelligence.

The delegation will review content from major Chinese institutions working in creative content and technology sectors. Discussions will focus on opportunities for these entities to participate in future events like the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair and the International Congress of Arab Publishing and Creative Industries.

Highlighting Key Projects

The Centre’s programme includes a seminar on "His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan: Insights into the Journey of the Man of Humanity" and launching its Chinese edition with author Dr. Jamal Sanad Al-Suwaidi present.

The ALC will visit influential Chinese institutions such as China National Publications Import & Export Corporation, Renmin University of China, Sheikh Zayed Centre for Arabic and Islamic Studies at Beijing Foreign Studies University, Beijing Language and Culture University, and People’s Publishing House of China.

Professional Meetings

Professional meetings with senior Chinese publishing houses and officials are also on the agenda. These meetings aim to promote ALC projects like the Kalima Project for Translation, various awards, and encourage Chinese participation in future events.

With inputs from WAM