Abu dhabi: In the presence of H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, the President of the Italian Republic conferred upon H.H. Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for Education and Book Culture, the Officer rank of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic. This prestigious honor, the highest order of merit in Italy, was bestowed in recognition of Sheikha Bodour's efforts to strengthen cultural ties between Italy and the United Arab Emirates.
According to Emirates News Agency, the distinction was awarded upon the recommendation of Lorenzo Fanara, Ambassador of Italy to the United Arab Emirates. Fanara highlighted Sheikha Bodour's valuable contribution to advancing relations with Italy in his official communication. The formal investiture took place at Al Bait Al Westi in the UAE on July 13th, during an official ceremony where Lorenzo Fanara presented the honor on behalf of the Italian President.
After receiving the insignia and diploma of the Order, Sheikha Bodour accompanied Ambassador Fanara and guests on a tour of Al Bait Al Westi, a historic home repurposed by the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) as a cultural venue. In a statement following the ceremony, Sheikha Bodour expressed her gratitude for the recognition by Italy, emphasizing her commitment to promoting cultural dialogue through literature.
Sheikha Bodour has significantly contributed to cultural exchange, notably through the Italian translation of her children's book, "The House of Wisdom," offering young Italian readers insights into Arab and Islamic civilizations. Ambassador Fanara praised Sheikha Bodour's role in fostering cultural ties with Italy, including her support for the reconstruction of Bologna's historic children's bookshop, "Giannino Stoppani."
Established by Luigi Einaudi in 1951, the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic recognizes individuals for exceptional contributions across various fields. Sheikha Bodour's engagement with Italy over the years reflects her commitment to cultural exchange through books, publishing, and education.
In her roles as President of the American University of Sharjah and Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority, Sheikha Bodour has advanced education and cultural exchange as pillars of development. Her leadership in the International Publishers Association and founding of the Kalimat Group has transformed the children's publishing landscape and promoted access to quality Arabic literature.
Sheikha Bodour's efforts through various organizations, including the Emirates Publishers Association and Knowledge Without Borders, have strengthened Sharjah's position as a global hub for literature and cultural dialogue. Her leadership in the UNESCO World Book Capital program and advocacy for underserved communities highlight her belief in books as a catalyst for social progress.
The honor from Italy underscores Sheikha Bodour's personal contributions and the growing cultural partnership between Italy and the UAE, emphasizing the power of dialogue, creativity, and learning as bridges between peoples.