Sharjah Welcomes Women Ambassadors For High-Level Ramadan Gathering Promoting Cultural Dialogue

Sharjah's Department of Government Relations (DGR) recently hosted a Ramadan gathering at Bait Elowal, a cultural site in Sharjah. The event, attended by Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, President of the American University of Sharjah (AUS), welcomed 11 female ambassadors and senior diplomatic representatives. Guests were treated to a tour of Bait Elowal and participated in a workshop led by herbalist wellness brand Hikma before the suhoor.

Sheikha Bodour highlighted Ramadan as a time for reflection on faith, virtue, and solidarity. She expressed gratitude to the DGR for organising the event, which showcased Sharjah's dedication to inclusive diplomacy and promoting women's leadership in global cooperation. "Female diplomats are uniquely positioned to champion innovative policy solutions and conflict resolution, reinforcing our shared global vision for equitable and impactful international relations," she stated.

The gathering underscored the importance of cultural dialogue and mutual understanding during Ramadan. Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi, Chairman of DGR, emphasised that such gatherings provide a platform for exchange and shared learning. He reiterated Sharjah's commitment to cultural exchange and fostering strong global connections as pathways to international cooperation.

Among the attendees were Sajeda Shawa, Head of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), and Valentina Bernasconi, Head of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) Mission in the UAE. Their presence highlighted the significance of humanitarian efforts within international relations.

The event also welcomed several ambassadors to the UAE. These included Annalee C. Babb from Barbados; Meropi Christofi from Cyprus; Maria Camilleri Calleja from Malta; Dana Goldfinca from Latvia; Maria Belovas from Estonia; Natalia Al Mansour from Slovenia; Marie Ndjeka Opombo from the Democratic Republic of Congo; Lucie Berger from the European Union; and Dieminatou Sangare from Mali.

This gathering at Bait Elowal served as an opportunity for female diplomats to engage in meaningful discussions about international relations. It reinforced Sharjah's strategic focus on advancing women's roles in diplomacy while promoting cultural understanding during Ramadan.

With inputs from WAM