Ahmed Al-Sahaf, Iraq’s Charge d’Affaires in Libya, and Libyan Minister of Culture Mabrouka Toghi Othman discussed enhancing cultural cooperation, with plans for inter-tourism and a potential memorandum of understanding. They highlighted Baghdad as the Arab capital of culture in 2025 and planned an Iraqi-Libyan Cultural Week in Tripoli.
On Thursday, Ahmed Al-Sahaf, the Charge d’Affaires of the Iraqi Embassy in Libya, engaged in discussions with Mabrouka Toghi Othman, Libya’s Minister of Culture and Knowledge Affairs, focusing on the enhancement of cultural cooperation between their respective countries. They emphasized the importance of fostering inter-tourism and considered the potential for signing a comprehensive memorandum of understanding to formalize their collaboration in cultural initiatives.
Al-Sahaf notably highlighted the Council of Arab Ministers of Culture’s decision to designate Baghdad as the Arab capital of culture in 2025, underlining this selection based on Iraq’s substantial cultural infrastructure and historical significance. He stated that upon careful evaluation, Baghdad was deemed worthy of such recognition, attributing this achievement to diligent efforts by the Iraqi Ministry of Culture and other governmental bodies in promoting cultural diplomacy.
The discussions also covered opportunities for cross-cultural exchanges, particularly in art and theater, as well as collaborative engagements between educational and research centers. There was a mutual intention to host an Iraqi-Libyan Cultural Week in Tripoli, which aims to unite scholars, artistic groups, poets, and cultural heritage experts from both nations to celebrate their rich cultural tapestries.
The recent discussions between Iraq and Libya represent a significant move towards strengthening bilateral cultural ties, highlighting the shared commitment of both nations to foster cultural exchange and collaboration. The involvement of key representatives, including Ahmed Al-Sahaf and Mabrouka Toghi Othman, underscores the governments’ interest in not only preserving cultural heritage but also enhancing tourism and knowledge sharing. The decisions taken reflect a broader strategy to leverage culture as a tool for diplomacy and economic development.
The engagement between Iraq and Libya regarding cultural cooperation is a promising step towards fostering deeper ties through shared cultural initiatives and exchanges. The planned Iraqi-Libyan Cultural Week and potential memorandum of understanding signify a mutual commitment to celebrate and promote their respective cultures. Moreover, the acknowledgment of Baghdad as the Arab capital of culture for 2025 positions Iraq favorably on the regional cultural stage, reinforcing its cultural significance.
Original Source: ina.iq
