Latest news with #Al-Jassar
Arab Times
10-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Arab Times
NCCAL holds 17th Summer Cultural Festival with songs of Fadel Chaker
KUWAIT CITY, July 10: The National Council for Culture, Arts, and Letters (NCCAL) launched the 17th edition of the 'Summer Cultural Festival' on Wednesday with a musical concert at the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Center, featuring a selection of songs by artist Fadel Chaker. During the opening at Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Hall, Secretary- General of NCCAL Dr. Mohammed Al-Jassar said this edition reflects NCCAL's commitment to supporting endeavors that uplift the mind, enrich the soul, and enhance culture's role in everyday life. He affirmed that the festival has become a prominent milestone on Kuwait's cultural map, bringing together a distinguished group of artists, creators, and lovers of beauty and art. Dr. Al-Jassar stressed that NCCAL views culture as a shared responsibility and appreciates constructive cooperation with the private sector, which plays a vital role in enriching the intellectual scene and ensuring seamless implementation of the festival's programs. He said NCCAL's partnerships with institutions and individuals have expanded cultural engagement and brought artistic activities closer to the public, highlighting that this collaboration between the public and private sectors represents a strategic approach to building a dynamic, evolving cultural community rooted in its heritage and open to future horizons. Dr. Al-Jassar highlighted that this year's festival includes many activities that reflect Arab identity and celebrate Kuwait's artistic heritage through a variety of events involving children and families, as well as specialized literary and artistic workshops spanning seven weeks. He noted that all cultural sites, centers, and museums will be dedicated to supporting the festival's programs. Dr. Al-Jassar emphasized that the festival is more than just a seasonal cultural event; it is a living expression of the council's commitment to the belief that 'culture is a field for all, a bridge for intergenerational connection, and a window into the realms of human creativity.' He expressed gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of this edition and to the esteemed audience, who embody the festival's purpose and message. During the concert, hosted by media personality Hashem Asad, artists Mohammed Fadel Chaker and Raneen Al-Shaar performed under the direction of maestro Michael Ibrahim, presenting a selection of Fadel Chaker's songs. NCCAL honored the band and participating artists (KUNA)
Arab Times
10-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Arab Times
Kuwait kicks off 17th Summer Cultural Festival at JACC
KUWAIT CITY, July 10: The National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL) officially launched the 17th Summer Cultural Festival on Wednesday with a concert at the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Center (JACC), featuring acclaimed Kuwaiti singer Fadel Shaker. In his opening speech, NCCAL Secretary-General Dr. Mohammed Al-Jassar emphasized that the festival reflects the council's dedication to nurturing the mind, enriching the spirit, and embedding culture in everyday life. He described the annual event as a prominent fixture on Kuwait's cultural calendar, drawing large crowds and serving as a vibrant platform for artists, creators, and art enthusiasts. Dr. Al-Jassar highlighted the importance of culture as a shared responsibility, praising the fruitful collaboration with the private sector, which plays a vital role in enriching the intellectual and artistic scene. He noted that partnerships with various institutions and individuals have broadened the reach of cultural activities, bringing artistic experiences closer to the public and fostering a dynamic cultural community that honors Kuwait's heritage while embracing future possibilities. This year's festival spans seven weeks and features a diverse program celebrating Arab identity and Kuwait's artistic legacy. Activities include events tailored for children and families, as well as specialized workshops in literary and artistic disciplines. The festival utilizes all cultural venues, centers, and museums across the country to host its array of programs. Dr. Al-Jassar described the festival not merely as a seasonal cultural event but as a living testament to NCCAL's principle that 'culture is a field for all, a bridge between generations, and a window to human creativity.' He expressed gratitude to all contributors and the enthusiastic audience, who embody the festival's goals and message. The opening ceremony, hosted by media personality Hashem Asad, featured performances by Mohamed Fadel Shaker and Raneen Al-Shaar, accompanied by maestro Michael Ibrahim and his band. The National Council honored the participating artists in recognition of their contributions to the festival.
Arab Times
20-05-2025
- General
- Arab Times
A Legacy Of Friendship: Kuwait And India Reflect On 250 Years Of Strong Bilateral Relations
KUWAIT CITY, May 20: In a testament to the rich and enduring friendship between Kuwait and India, the Secretary-General of the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL), Dr. Mohammed Al-Jassar, praised the relationship between the two nations as a unique model of brotherhood and cultural synergy. His remarks came during the inauguration of the exhibition 'Rihla - E- Dosti: 250 Years of Relations between India and Kuwait,' hosted at the Kuwait National Library in collaboration with the Embassy of India and the Kuwait Heritage Society. Dr. Al-Jassar emphasized that the relationship between Kuwait and India has never been limited to mere economic interests. 'It is a deep and exceptional bond woven through centuries of mutual respect, cultural exchange, and shared values,' he said. Highlighting the long-standing maritime and commercial ties, he described how the early roots of this connection began around 1775 when Kuwaiti ships first docked at Indian ports. These initial encounters laid the foundation for what would become a dynamic trade network stretching across the East and West, positioning Kuwait as a vital commercial hub in the Gulf region. He noted that many Kuwaiti families eventually settled near Indian ports, engaging in the export of key commodities such as foodstuffs and timber, while importing dates and Arabian horses, contributing significantly to the economic and cultural prosperity of both nations. 'Our shared heritage and ancient history continue to be a guiding light toward a future of stronger cooperation and cultural unity,' Al-Jassar added. The exhibition, which runs until the end of the week, showcases rare archival photographs, historical documents, and items that highlight the profound civilizational and cultural influence exchanged between the two countries over centuries. Seminars and interactive sessions also explore these deep-rooted connections. Indian Ambassador to Kuwait, Dr. Adarsh Sewaka, echoed these sentiments, noting that the relationship between the two countries predates their formation as modern states. He recalled how Kuwaiti vessels once carried dates, pearls, and horses to Indian shores, returning with rice, spices, wood, and textiles—products that sustained not only Kuwait but the wider Gulf region. Ambassador Sewaka stressed the importance of educating the younger generations about this historic bond. 'This exhibition serves as a celebration of our shared journey and a reminder to our youth of the cultural bridges that have long connected our peoples,' he said. He revealed that school and university students from across Kuwait would visit the exhibition in the coming days. Among the displays are documents related to trade at Indian ports, Arabic books on pearl diving printed in India, historic banknotes and currencies used in Kuwait up to 1961, and postage stamps printed in India. These artifacts offer a tangible look into the intertwined legacies of India and Kuwait. The ambassador extended his gratitude to the NCCAL for its ongoing efforts in fostering cross-cultural dialogue and praised the Kuwait Heritage Society, particularly its chairman Fahad Al-Abduljalil, for being instrumental in bringing the event to life. The exhibition, 'Dosti's Journey: 250 Years of India-Kuwait Relations,' is a joint initiative involving the Embassy of India, NCCAL, Kuwait Heritage Society, National Archives of India, and India's Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and Ministry of External Affairs. It stands as a powerful tribute to the centuries-old relationship built on trade, trust, and an enduring cultural kinship.
Kuwait Times
19-05-2025
- Business
- Kuwait Times
NCCAL chief underlines Kuwait-EU cultural ties
KUWAIT: Secretary General of the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL) Mohammad Al-Jassar on Monday underscored the importance of cultural cooperation between Kuwait and the European Union, describing it as a cornerstone for strengthening bilateral ties across diverse sectors. Speaking to KUNA on the sidelines of the EU-Kuwait Culture Forum, Al-Jassar praised the 'fruitful and excellent' cultural relations between the two sides. The forum, held for the first time, was organized by the EU Delegation to Kuwait under the patronage of Minister of Information and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, in celebration of Kuwait's designation as the Arab Capital of Culture and Media for 2025. Al-Jassar noted the continued presence of EU archaeological teams working in Kuwait as a prime example of effective cooperation, emphasizing their contributions to unearthing and preserving the country's rich heritage. Secretary General of the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL) Mohammad Al-Jassar with Anne Koistinen, EU Ambassador to Kuwait. – KUNA photos EU-Kuwait Culture Forum. Secretary General of the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL) Mohammad Al-Jassar Anne Koistinen, EU Ambassador to Kuwait He also highlighted the growing number of Kuwaiti students pursuing higher education in European countries, acquiring valuable expertise to support national development efforts. In addition, Al-Jassar pointed to successful architectural collaborations, including landmark projects in Kuwait designed by European architects, as further evidence of the strength of cultural ties. 'This forum reflects Kuwait's commitment to reinforcing cultural exchange with nations around the world, particularly the European Union,' he said. EU Ambassador to Kuwait Anne Koistinen lauded Kuwait's cultural and civilizational legacy, describing it as a 'valuable traditional treasure.' She emphasized the depth of cooperation in various fields such as architecture, the arts, and human sciences, as well as shared museum initiatives between Kuwait and the EU. Koistinen praised the forum as a tangible demonstration of deep-rooted and expanding cultural collaboration, noting that Kuwait and the EU are set to mark 40 years of diplomatic relations in early 2026. Prominent figures from both sides participated in the forum, engaging in dialogue on preserving cultural heritage and exploring new avenues of cooperation. Discussions included initiatives such as the European Capitals of Culture, best practices in heritage conservation, cultural innovation, the role of museums, and community engagement in cultural activities. The event also served as a platform to explore strategies to elevate EU-Kuwait cultural relations to a more strategic level, aligning with both sides' aspirations to foster long-term partnerships grounded in mutual respect and shared cultural values. — KUNA
Arab Times
19-05-2025
- Business
- Arab Times
Kuwait-EU forge deeper cultural ties at landmark forum
KUWAIT CITY, May 19 : Secretary General of the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL) Mohammad Al-Jassar on Monday stressed the significance of Kuwait-EU cultural cooperation. Al-Jassar made the statement to KUNA on the sidelines of the EUKuwait Culture Forum, organized by the EU Delegation to Kuwait to celebrate the State of Kuwait becoming the Arab Capital of Culture and Media for 2025. The first-ever event was held under the patronage of Minister of Information and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Abdulrahman Al- Mutairi. Al-Jassar said that Kuwait-EU cooperation cultural cooperation plays a significant role in the promotion of bilateral relations in various domains, hailing their bilateral cultural relations as 'fruitful and excellent'. He cited the continued visits of EU archaeological excavation teams to Kuwait as a resonant paradigm of fruitful cooperation between both sides. He added that Kuwait always sends many students to EU countries to acquire knowledge and expertise in different fields so that they could contribute to developing their homeland and society. He also cited existing architectural cooperation between Kuwait and the EU, particularly regarding the EU designing of special buildings and landmarks in Kuwait as another unequivocal proof of their significant cultural cooperation. Al-Jassar considered that today's event reflects the fact that the State of Kuwait attaches much attention to bolstering and cementing cultural relations with world countries, especially the EU. For her part, Anne Koistinen, EU Ambassador to the State of Kuwait, told KUNA that Kuwait's cultural and civilizational heritage is a valuable traditional treasure, pointing to EU archaeological missions in Kuwait. She added that Kuwait-EU cooperation covers architecture, arts and human science, along with the sharing of movable museums. Koistinen spoke highly of the first-ever EU-Kuwaiti cultural forum as clear-cut proof of deep cultural cooperation between the EU and the State of Kuwait, which are expected to mark 40 years since they forged their diplomatic relations early next year. Prominent speakers from the EU and Kuwait participated in the forum to discuss the long-standing collaboration between European Union Member States and Kuwait to preserve and promote cultural heritage. During the event, participants also exchanged ways to promote and increase EU-Kuwait cultural connections, as both sides strive to enhance their excellent relations and elevate them to a strategic level. The discussions at the forum touched upon a wide range of topics, including initiatives such as the European Capitals of Culture, best European and Kuwaiti practices in preserving cultural heritage and building partnerships, as well as innovation and audiovisual practices or the role of museums in raising awareness and engaging the local communities in cultural heritage practices. (KUNA)
