SHARJAH: Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi stressed on the importance of preserving cultural identity saying it is the last bastion that protects man from chaos and conflict.

“The cultural particularities cannot fade forever, but live in hibernation deep in the unconscious mind, awaiting a certain context to stimulate them back to the surface. The cultural values cannot be buried forever.

“We should face this unruly mess, which if not dealt with would have destructive effects that are more serious and worse than the impact of the colonial wave in the past. Cultural identity is the protective shield, the fortress, and the only guarantee for our survival,” he said.

His comments came during his opening speech at the second Government Communication Forum, which opened in Sharjah on Sunday in the presence of Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah Sheikh Abdullah Bin Salem Al Qasimi, former Secretary-General of the United Nations Kofi Annan, former  Secretary-General of the Arab League Amr Moussa, and former US Ambassador to the United Nations Andrew Young.

Sheikh Sultan expressed his delight over the presence of prominent decision-makers who act according to what their conscience dictates. He said, “We listened to their words. They have made us feel proud of the stance they adopt.”