The Sharjah Roads and Transport Authority, in collaboration with the Sharjah Police General Command, has declared a reduction in the speed limit on Al Ittihad Street and Al Wahda Street from 100 km/h to 80 km/h. This measure aims to enhance the efficiency of traffic movement on these roads.
His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, a member of the Supreme Council and the ruler of Sharjah, and the honorary president of the Emirates Writers and Authors Union, attended the union's celebration yesterday evening. The celebration marked the 40th anniversary of the union's establishment and took place at the Sharjah Book Authority headquarters.
Upon his visit, His Highness was greeted by Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, the Chairwoman of the Board of Directors of the Sharjah Book Authority, His Excellency Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qasimi, the Minister of Culture, and several high-ranking officials, authors, and writers.
At the ceremony, His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah bestowed honors upon the former presidents of the Emirates Writers and Writers Union. These individuals include Abdul Hamid Ahmed, Abdul Ghaffar Hussein, Nasser Al Dhaheri, Ibrahim Al Hashimi, the late Nasser Gibran, and Habib Al Sayegh. Additionally, the current president of the Union, Dr. Sultan Al Amimi, was also recognized.
The lecture delivered by the esteemed ruler of Sharjah focused on the crucial role of culture and intellectuals in society. It highlighted the historical origins of intellectual and writer movements in Europe, which played a significant part in initiating important changes and activating the roles of intellectuals throughout the continent.
At the outset of his speech, His Highness commended the former presidents of the Union for their contributions to the advancement of culture and literature. He expressed appreciation for their profound understanding and expertise in the educational, cultural, and scientific aspects of the community, as the community heavily relies on their guidance.
His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah elucidated the concept of culture in his address, defining it as the attainment of expertise and authority in the fields of sciences, literature, and the arts. He proceeded to narrate the historical impact of intellectuals and writers on society, which originated in Britain in 1613 AD with the emergence of the renowned writer William Shakespeare. His theatrical and novelistic literary works created a significant sensation. England's cultural renaissance set it apart from the rest of Europe until the emergence of the English scientist Isaac Newton, marking the beginning of a century known as the "century of lights." This century, in contrast to the prevailing darkness in Europe, sparked a movement among various European peoples. French thinkers like as Diderot, Jacques-Jacques Rousseau, and others emerged, influencing science, culture, and arts in England.
After finishing his lecture, His Highness urged young writers to demonstrate commitment, as they had the determination, vigor, intellect, expertise, and wisdom.
At the ceremony, the attendees viewed a visual presentation commemorating the 40th anniversary of the Emirates Writers and Writers Union. The presentation highlighted the Union's journey and accomplishments, including its involvement in numerous events and its members' support in various literary fields, particularly in Sharjah. Specifically, this positioned the Emirati creative as a central figure in global culture across several dimensions of intellectual discourse, poetry, and literature.