Doha seeks to grow as an intellectual and media hub in the region

Both organisations will work in partnership to initiate and support cultural activities through the development, production and distribution of cultural publications. The joint venture aims to encourage the citizens and residents of Qatar to engage in a participatory and creative role in developing the local cultural landscape.

Commenting on the occasion Hanouf Al-Buainain, Director, BQFP said, “We want to bring culture out to the broader consciousness, and at the same time develop a vibrant literary publishing scene and related skills within Qatar. Our relationship with Katara will also go out to foster a passion of reading and writing across all ages. I foresee Qatar producing a number of books of excellence and original literature in English and Arabic in the immediate future.”

Elaborating on the goals outlined in the agreement, Abdulrahman Al Khulaifi, commented, “Through this partnership we wish to develop a common cultural awareness and therefore emotional intelligence that transcends disciplines and provides individuals the aptitude and skill-set to appreciate cultures from across the world. Our joint initiatives will go out to further our vision through all kinds of artistic and cultural activities, ultimately supporting the development of a creative and innovative Qatar.”

This agreement directly subscribes to the Cultural Pillar of the National Development Strategy 2011-2016 and the National Strategy for Family Affairs 2011-2016, which deem culture to be a crucial element of the socio-economic development of Qatar. The relationship between the organisations will bring about the growth of cultural awareness through festivals, exhibitions, concerts and symposiums under the auspices of the Ministry of Culture, Arts and Heritage. In an ever-evolving and digitalised global world, Katara is keen to provide a platform where Qataris can hold onto their cultural roots and heritage, embrace differences and celebrate similarities with the cultures of the world.