'Here in Sharjah, we feel at home, among our own people'

His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, announced the completion of the Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language, consisting of 127 volumes.

This unique achievement adds to the series of accomplishments of Sharjah, under Dr Sheikh Sultan's leadership, in various fields of culture, literature, and the Arabic language for the Arab and Islamic nations.

This came during the Ruler of Sharjah's attendance on Saturday, at the launch of the Second Sharjah International Conference on Arabic Language Studies in Europe (SICALE), organised by the Arabic Language Academy in Sharjah, at the Dr Sultan Al Qasimi Centre.

The Ruler of Sharjah warmly welcomed a diverse gathering of scholars and researchers from across Europe at the conference, sharing his profound joy over the completion of the volumes of the Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language.

He remarked, "Your presence today, as we celebrate the completion of this monumental work, fills us with joy and pride. This is truly a moment of celebration, a testament to our collective efforts. Over the span of seven years, this dictionary has come to life through the dedication of 500 researchers and nearly 200 proofreaders, reviewers, and printers.

Dr Sheikh Sultan added that the scientific and research team for the Historical Dictionary will continue its diligent work with the Arabic Language Academy in Sharjah to accomplish research and reference projects. They will begin working on the Arabic Encyclopedia, which will cover all literary and scientific fields and will become the primary reference for everyone.

In closing his remarks, the Ruler of Sharjah emphasised the ongoing efforts to establish more cultural centres that play a vital role in promoting support for Arabic culture and language, as well as valuable projects related to them.

Dr Dragana Georgievich delivered a heartfelt speech of gratitude on behalf of the attendees, acknowledging the Ruler of Sharjah for his unwavering support of Arabic language initiatives and education, particularly in European countries.

She emphasised the invaluable opportunity this conference provides for scholars and researchers to collaborate and contribute to the promotion and dissemination of Arabic, stating, "Here in Sharjah, we feel at home, among our own people." At the conclusion of the conference's opening ceremonies, the Ruler of Sharjah honoured the participating scholars and researchers for their contributions.

The conference began with the recitation of verses from the Holy Quran. Following this, Mohammed Safi Al Mosteghanemi, Secretary-General of the Arabic Language Academy (ALA), delivered a speech welcoming the Ruler of Sharjah and the attendees at the second edition of the conference.

He highlighted Dr Sheikh Sultan's unwavering support and personal commitment to the Arabic language in terms of learning, teaching, dissemination, literature, and culture. He also welcomed the participants from various European countries and their significant contributions to supporting the Arabic language in their regions. Mistaghani addressed the importance of collaborative efforts among all scholars, researchers, and orientalists in the pursuit and promotion of the Arabic language.

He emphasised the significance of the Arab Studies Conference in Europe in achieving numerous objectives aimed at enhancing the dissemination and learning of the Arabic language across various European countries, as well as addressing research goals and discussing challenges to find solutions.

Sheikh Sultan and the attendees watched a presentation about the Arabic Language Academy in Sharjah, highlighting its vision, mission, and goals in promoting, developing, and supporting the Arabic language, along with its research and studies.

The presentation also showcased its publications, educational programmes, and efforts to honour scholars and outstanding individuals in various branches of the Arabic language.

Laura Gago addressed the audience on behalf of the conference guests, commending the Ruler of Sharjah for his invaluable contributions to the Arabic language, especially in Europe.

She highlighted Sharjah's vital role as a beacon of support and enthusiasm for Arabic, transforming it into a thriving hub for language enthusiasts and scholars alike, truly establishing it as the capital of the Arabic language.

She emphasised the conference's significance and international success, noting the eagerness of scholars from various countries to participate: "We have come from all corners of Europe, both East and West, to discuss the Arabic language in the modern capital of Arab culture. We know that Arabic is not merely a nationality; as the Prophet of Islam said, it is a tongue-whoever speaks Arabic is an Arab. The Arabic language reigns supreme among human languages, and while its native speakers embrace it by nature, our love for Arabic, as non-native speakers, is a conscious choice and a heartfelt decision."

She concluded her remarks with gratitude and appreciation to the Arabic Language Academy in Sharjah for organising the conference and ensuring its success.

WAM