الشارقة 24:
In an insightful session titled “Sharjah and Building Bridges with the World,” Sheikh Fahim bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Head of the Government Relations Department and Chairman of the Supreme Committee for Economic Integration in Sharjah, outlined the emirate’s unique approach to international relations, highlighting its rich cultural heritage and developmental experience as foundations for global dialogue. This session was held at the House of Wisdom in collaboration with the International Relations Association at the University of Sharjah, and was moderated by Yasmeen Abdullah Al Ali, an international relations student at the university and an active member of the association.
Cultural Identity as a Bridge
Sheikh Fahim asserted that Sharjah uses its cultural capital and development milestones to foster trust and enhance cooperation with the global community. He emphasised that the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, guides these efforts. By promoting understanding of Sharjah’s history and culture, the emirate aims to open new avenues for partnership.
The Importance of Knowledge in Representation
During the discussion, Sheikh Fahim elaborated on the requirements for effectively representing Sharjah on the international stage. He noted that a deep understanding of the emirate’s institutions, projects, and developmental priorities is essential. This knowledge is invaluable when engaging with ambassadors and international partners, as it helps identify areas for collaboration and facilitates communication with relevant agencies in Sharjah to develop joint initiatives.
Personal Connections in Diplomacy
Highlighting the necessity of personal engagement in diplomacy, Sheikh Fahim asserted that building sustainable relationships hinges on creating trust through direct communication. He recognised that while digital communication has expanded, face-to-face interactions remain crucial. Drawing from his experiences, Sheikh Fahim illustrated how personal dialogue fosters mutual understanding and leads to effective cooperation with international partners.
Showcasing Sharjah’s Vision
When discussing Sharjah’s methods for promoting its achievements, Sheikh Fahim acknowledged the significant influence of the Ruler’s directives in establishing a dialogue-focused approach. He actively engages first-time visitors by guiding them through Sharjah’s historical and architectural developments, as well as its cultural, educational, and environmental projects. This immersive experience enables visitors to grasp the vision underpinning Sharjah’s progress, encouraging them to explore and deepen their connections with the emirate.
A Holistic Approach to International Relations
Sheikh Fahim emphasised that a significant aspect of diplomatic work occurs out of the spotlight, with tangible results manifested in strengthened collaborations and sustained partnerships. He reiterated the department’s commitment to educating youth about Sharjah’s international relations strategy, providing university students an opportunity to connect their academic knowledge with practical diplomatic experiences.
In conclusion, the session highlighted the shared goal of fostering dialogue and knowledge exchange as crucial components in reinforcing the role of culture and human communication in enhancing relationships between nations. This initiative reflects the continuing efforts of the Government Relations Department in Sharjah to engage the younger generation in understanding and contributing to the global community.