Sharjah recently hosted a high-level meeting at the House of Wisdom, organized by the Department of Government Relations (DGR) and attended by a delegation from the British Embassy. This meeting focused on enhancing collaboration in several key areas, including culture, education, and the creative industries, aligning with Sharjah’s 2025 development goals aimed at fostering stronger partnerships with UK institutions.

The meeting was led by Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi, Chairman of the DGR, and H.E. Edward Hobart, the British Ambassador to the UAE. They were joined by other prominent figures, including H.E. Sarah Mooney, British Trade Commissioner for the Middle East and Pakistan, and Sheikh Majid bin Abdullah Al Qasimi, Director of DGR. The discussions covered Sharjah’s upcoming government, community, and cultural initiatives for the next year, as well as potential collaboration opportunities in priority areas and information exchange related to the UK’s 2025 programmes.

In his remarks, Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi highlighted that the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, is rooted in the belief that culture and knowledge are crucial for developing strong international relations. He noted that Sharjah sees cultural and academic cooperation as vital for building bridges of understanding between nations.

He stated, “Our meeting with the British Embassy delegation is an extension of this vision and a reflection of a deep-rooted belief that knowledge-based partnerships are the foundation of such engagement.” Sheikh Fahim emphasized that these partnerships have already stimulated a vibrant cultural and intellectual movement in Sharjah, enhancing its reputation as a global hub for research and education.

The meeting also explored opportunities for developing joint academic programmes between British universities and those in Sharjah, focusing on fields such as media, engineering, and the humanities. This initiative aims to reinforce Sharjah’s status as a regional center for higher education and knowledge.

Furthermore, the discussions emphasized support for the creative industries through collaborations in arts, design, digital media, and content creation. A significant focus was placed on the Sharjah Creative Quarter (SCQ), which aims to bolster the emirate’s creative economy by organizing joint cultural initiatives and empowering cultural entrepreneurs.

This high-level meeting illustrates a shared commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation through strategic projects and initiatives designed to achieve common developmental and cultural objectives, paving the way for greater institutional integration and knowledge exchange.