الشارقة 24:
In a vibrant celebration of Iraqi heritage, His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, the Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, joined the Iraqi community in the UAE at the second edition of “Emirates Love Iraq.” The event took place at the Dubai Exhibition Centre, Expo Dubai, attracting over 15,000 attendees, including members of the Iraqi diaspora, Emirati citizens, and residents alike.
Organised by the “Emirates Love Iraq” page, the event also welcomed Samir Salman Abdul, the Consul General in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, in addition to several diplomats, cultural, economic, and social figures. This year’s programme featured a diverse range of cultural, artistic, and entertainment activities that celebrated the richness of Iraqi civilisation while highlighting the deep human and brotherly ties between the UAE and Iraq.
Sheikh Nahyan expressed his joy in participating once again in this celebratory occasion, acknowledging the affection the Iraqi community holds for the UAE and vice versa, as well as their deep pride in the close brotherly relations between both nations. He remarked, “It brings me great pleasure to be together again in this public celebration for the Iraqi community, where you express your love for the UAE and where we, in turn, express our love for you.”
Deep Affection and Genuine Brotherhood
He continued, expressing the UAE’s pride in the Iraqi community’s presence and their collective efforts to foster love and brotherhood between the two peoples, all while following the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE. “The UAE is always keen on developing its relationships with its brothers based on genuine love, sincere brotherhood, fruitful cooperation, and mutual respect,” he stated.
Sheikh Nahyan elaborated on Iraq’s historical significance, reminiscing, “When the two rivers flowed from the north to the south of Iraq, civilizations were built. It was in Sumer where the first alphabet was written and the first wheel was invented.” He highlighted that beneath the soil of Iraq lies a treasure trove of history and artifacts, such as the Ishtar Gate and the statues of King Gudea, which embellish the world-renowned museums.
The Minister conveyed greetings of peace and solidarity to the Iraqi people, wishing them prosperity and progress, and highlighting Iraq’s current strides towards peace and stability throughout its regions. “I express my immense joy that our beloved Iraq is moving forward towards achieving peace and prosperity for all its inhabitants,” he said.
Iraqi Culture and Heritage
He conveyed his admiration for the pride exhibited by the Iraqi community members in the UAE regarding their culture and heritage, noting, “I am very pleased to see your enthusiasm and pride in Iraqi culture, and your determination to be an effective tool in enhancing the relationships between Iraq and the UAE.”
Sheikh Nahyan concluded his speech by expressing gratitude for the opportunity to celebrate together, eagerly anticipating the cultural performances that would reflect the spirit of Iraq and foster deeper connections among all attendees. He implored for the well-being of both nations, stating, “May God protect Iraq and the UAE and grant our two brotherly countries all that we wish for them in terms of good, progress, security, and stability.”
Diverse Cultural, Artistic, and Entertainment Programme
The “Emirates Love Iraq” event featured a rich cultural and entertainment programme, highlighted by performances from artists like Rahma Riad and Mahmoud Turk. The event also included celebrated content creators such as Louay Sahi, Mina Al Sheikhly, and Zainab Al-Aqabi, all contributing to an atmosphere that showcased the abundance of Iraqi culture and its diverse traditions.
Additionally, several members of the Iraqi community in the UAE were honoured for their outstanding contributions in various sectors, including medicine, academia, culture, art, architecture, and economics, with their success stories spotlighted during the event.
Honourees included Dr Rezab Zaki Abd Al-Rehman, a specialised veterinarian; Ali Jaafar Mohammed Samakah, an expert in sports law; and Faleh Zaki Hanzal, a historian and researcher. Also recognised were Muhammed Khalid Al-Asam, the founder of Diwan Engineering Consultants, and several others who have made significant contributions to the UAE.
Interactive Visual Experiences Inspired by Iraq’s Wonders
The event also offered attendees interactive visual experiences inspired by Iraq’s prominent heritage sites. Highlights included a replica of the Ishtar Gate and an immersive experience inspired by Al-Mutanabbi Street, reflective of its cultural and literary significance. Other features included a scale model of the Great Mosque of Samarra and architectural designs drawn from Iraqi heritage.
Interactive zones showcased the traditions of various Iraqi cities such as Baghdad, Basra, Nineveh, Babylon, Najaf, Erbil, and Sulaymaniyah. The event also hosted an art exhibition, family-friendly activities, and a culinary experience that celebrated traditional Iraqi cuisine.
The second edition of “Emirates Love Iraq” exemplified the UAE’s commitment to honouring the cultures of the expatriate communities residing within its borders, fostering human and civilizational dialogue between peoples, reflective of the tolerance, coexistence, and openness upon which Emirati society is built.
Held for the second consecutive year, the event affirmed the historical and cultural bonds between the UAE and Iraq and demonstrated the enduring love and appreciation that both peoples share.