Sharjah hosts archaeologists’ delegation

Sohaila Ahmed, Staff reporter

Sharjah Archeology Authority recently welcomed a delegation from the Austrian Archaeological Institute to their office. Members of the institute conducted presentations highlighting the most important scientific studies and shed light on the authority’s role in caring for the enhanced scientific aspect of studies and research based on archaeological excavation sites.

Ambassador of the Austrian Embassy in Abu Dhabi, Dr Andreas Liebmann, also graced the event with his presence. “We are extremely active when it comes to the archeology scene in Sharjah. Locally a lot of the rich culture comes from places like Kalba and many others in Sharjah. We are here to explore these places and see where exactly trade is coming from. Our goal is to draw parallels in terms of trade locally and explain why such artifacts were rich in ancient times,” he said.

Dr. Sabah Abboud Jasim, Director General, Sharjah Archaeology Authority, commented “This meeting was part of the series of meetings and cultural activities held, from time to time, by the Sharjah Archeology Authority, to keep in touch with the archaeologists and discuss the latest archaeological discoveries across various sites in Sharjah. Meeting with the delegation of the Archeology Institute of Austria was part of these efforts, and also to review the activities of the Austrian mission, which has been operating in Kalba for about two years.”

He added that foreign archaeological missions were assisting Sharjah Archeology Authority, boost archaeological discoveries, and to have more information added that sheds lights on the ancient history of the UAE, and the role that ancient inhabitants of the country played in the ongoing progress of human civilization.

Two renowned archaeologists from the Austrian Archaeological Institute presented some of their findings during the gathering.

Dr Laura Rembart, from the institute conducted a presentation on, “Egypt- A hub in the wheel of trade between the Mediterranean and the Middle East. Dr Rembart highlighted how Egypt played an important role as a trade hub between the East and West. She said it is extremely important to compare several regions in order to understand the connection between the ancient world in terms of trade and other relationships and also make people understand the significance of what archeologists do. Over the years, with the increase in trade of items such as food, metals, pottery, luxurious items and through the discovery of rich resources, archeological excavations and discoveries have helped develop several international trade contacts, a crucial one being with that of the Emirate of Sharjah.