Greece To Feature As Guest Of Honour At The 44th Sharjah International Book Fair

Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), highlighted Greece's significant cultural impact. She noted that Greece, with its historical legacy and global influence, remains a crucial part of human creativity. Her comments were made during the announcement of Greece as the Guest of Honour for the 44th Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF).

The agreement was signed by Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, and Yasonas Varthalitis, Deputy Minister of Culture of the Hellenic Republic. This took place at the Thessaloniki International Exhibition & Congress Centre in Greece. Sheikha Bodour stated that Sharjah's cultural journey is guided by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi's vision.

"Sharjah’s cultural journey continues to be guided by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah. Today, the emirate carries this vision forward by embracing Greek culture. We believe flourishing civilisations are built on dialogue and exchange across geographical boundaries and Sharjah remains committed to this approach," she said.

Sheikha Bodour expressed excitement about Greece's participation in SIBF. She mentioned it as an opportunity to explore shared myths and influences shaping human consciousness. The SBA aims to make the 44th edition a milestone event, highlighting a nation that has significantly contributed to civilisation alongside the Arab world.

Al Ameri commented on hosting Greece as Guest of Honour at SIBF 2025. He said it aligns with Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi's vision for global cultural exchange. "In line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, to champion global cultural exchange, hosting Greece as Guest of Honour at SIBF 2025 adds to the fair’s distinguished record of international partnerships," he stated.

Varthalitis emphasised the longstanding friendship between Greece and UAE. "We meet today in a spirit of friendship and collaboration that has long defined the relationship between Greece and the UAE," he said. He credited their presence in Sharjah to efforts by their Minister of Culture fostering cooperation between both nations.

Cultural Exchange Initiatives

He further added that their cultural cooperation with SIBF strengthens ties between their nations and peoples. "Our cultural cooperation with SIBF deepens the bond between our nations and peoples," he remarked. A diverse programme showcasing Greek literary talent will be curated, aligning with Greece’s vision for openness and global engagement.

As Guest of Honour at SIBF 2025, Greece will present various cultural events highlighting its rich heritage. The programme will include classical philosophy, theatre, poetry, contemporary literature, visual arts, music performances inspired by Greek traditions, and more.

The educational segments will focus on significant milestones in Greek culture and its lasting contributions to human civilisation. This initiative aims to deepen understanding and appreciation for Greek heritage among attendees.

The Chairperson concluded that hosting Greece as Guest of Honour is an invitation to engage with Athens' voices like those from other distinguished capitals previously featured at SIBF. This reinforces SIBF’s role as a platform where cultures converge through dialogue.

With inputs from WAM