High-level diplomatic visit strengthens cultural ties
In a significant diplomatic and cultural move, the Ambassador of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to the Syrian Arab Republic, Dr. Faisal Al-Mujfel, paid an inspection visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's pavilion, which is participating as a guest of honor at the Damascus International Book Fair for 2026. This visit comes to emphasize the depth of the fraternal and historical relations that unite the two countries, and opens a new page of cultural and intellectual cooperation after years of interruption.
The Saudi ambassador was accompanied during his tour by a delegation of Arab ambassadors accredited to Damascus, including the ambassadors of the Kingdom of Bahrain, the Sultanate of Oman, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, and the Republic of Lebanon, in addition to the chargé d'affaires of the UAE embassy, reflecting a shared Arab interest in supporting the cultural movement in Syria and its strong return to the Arab scene.
Historical background and political context
This participation is particularly significant as it comes in the context of the restoration of full diplomatic relations between Riyadh and Damascus, culminating in Syria's return to its seat in the Arab League in 2023. The Damascus International Book Fair, one of the oldest and most prestigious book fairs in the region, has long been a meeting place for Arab intellectuals and publishers. The Kingdom's participation as guest of honor this year represents a clear message of support for Syrian culture and a recognition of its pivotal role in enriching the Arab cultural landscape. This step transcends mere participation in a book fair; it serves as a bridge for human and intellectual exchange, contributing to greater mutual understanding and regional stability.
The importance of the event and its expected impact
Locally, this significant participation contributes to revitalizing Syrian cultural life and provides Syrian readers with a broad window into the latest Saudi intellectual and literary publications. Regionally, it strengthens "cultural diplomacy" as an effective tool for bolstering ties between Arab states and highlights the Kingdom's leading role, under the leadership of the Saudi Commission for Literature, Publishing and Translation, in supporting Arab culture. This participation showcases the Kingdom's civilized and cultural face to the world and embodies the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which places great importance on promoting international cultural exchange.
Details of the Saudi pavilion and its message
During his tour, Ambassador Al-Mujfel viewed the various sections of the Saudi pavilion, which reflect the richness and diversity of the Kingdom's cultural heritage. The pavilion includes an exhibition of rare manuscripts, a section showcasing traditional Saudi clothing that highlights the beauty and authenticity of each region, and a section displaying archaeological replicas that narrate the history of the Arabian Peninsula. The pavilion also features a wide range of publications from the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission, including the "Tarjim" initiative and Saudi Literature Comics, which aim to bring Saudi creativity to diverse readerships. The Ambassador commended the efforts made to present a distinguished image of the Kingdom's flourishing cultural and literary scene.
Official meetings and confirmation of cooperation
Upon his arrival at the pavilion, the ambassador was received by Syrian Minister of Culture, Mohammed Yassin Saleh, who warmly welcomed the Kingdom's participation as guest of honor, emphasizing that this step reflects the depth of Saudi-Syrian cultural relations, which are based on partnership and mutual respect. The Syrian minister praised the distinguished events offered by the pavilion, including seminars and poetry evenings featuring a select group of Saudi writers and intellectuals, thus fostering a constructive and fruitful cultural dialogue.
