Tunisia Hosts the 20th Edition of the Sharjah International Narrators’ Forum

Discussing Transformations in Form and Structure in the New Short Story

Tunisia Hosts the 20th Edition of the Sharjah International Narrators’ Forum

Al-Owais: The Vision of the Ruler of Sharjah Has Created a Vibrant Environment Supporting Arab Creators

Director of the National Library: The Forum is One of Sharjah's Cultural Manifestations in the Arab World

Tunisia – Sidi Bou Said

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, Tunisia witnessed the launch of the 20th edition of the Sharjah International Narrators’ Forum on Tuesday, themed "The New Short Story: Transformations in Form and Structure." The forum will cover four critical analysis themes, discussed over two days by more than 50 creators, including novelists, short story writers, academics, and Tunisian critics.

The opening ceremony was held at the Star of the East Palace in Sidi Bou Said, Tunisia, with the presence of His Excellency Abdullah bin Mohammad Al Owais, Chairman of the Sharjah Department of Culture, Her Excellency Dr. Eman Al Salami, UAE Ambassador to Tunisia, Mr. Mohammed Ibrahim Al Qaseer, Director of Cultural Affairs at the Department of Culture, Mr. Khalid Khashir, Director General of the National Library at the Tunisian Ministry of Cultural Affairs, and a group of intellectuals, academics, and those interested in narrative writing.

The opening event featured an exhibition showcasing several publications from the Sharjah Department of Culture, including: Shariqa Al Thaqafiyyah Magazine, Al-Rafid Magazine, Al-Qawafi Magazine, Al-Heera Mn Al-Shariqah Magazine, and various literary works. The exhibition attracted significant public interest with many people acquiring these publications and exploring diverse cultural titles.

The event was managed by Tunisian critic Hatem Fattousi, who welcomed the attendees and highlighted Sharjah’s active role in supporting Arab culture and intellectuals through numerous cultural activities, including the Sharjah International Narrators’ Forum, which opens new horizons for critical reading of narrative writing.

"Influence, Vitality, and Benefit"

Abdullah Al Owais delivered a speech emphasizing the importance of cultural cooperation, stating: "We are very pleased with the renewal of fraternal relations and the continued cultural collaboration between the Sharjah Department of Culture and the Tunisian Ministry of Cultural Affairs. This cooperation has resulted in many cultural and literary activities and festivals across various Tunisian cities, from Tunisia to Kairouan. This collaboration underscores the significance of Arab cultural dialogue to enhance the presence of Arab writers, poets, and critics in the Tunisian and Arab cultural scenes, which the wise leadership of both countries continually strives to uphold."

Al Owais also reaffirmed the vision of the Ruler of Sharjah regarding the importance of rotating the forum among Arab countries, resulting in impactful and beneficial outcomes for Arab creators, stating: "Today, we gather for the 20th edition of the Sharjah International Narrators’ Forum, celebrating Arab culture and writers. His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, has envisioned the forum continuing to be held in various Arab countries for a more impactful, vibrant, and beneficial engagement with writers and critics."

The Chairman of the Department of Culture extended his gratitude to the Tunisian Ministry of Cultural Affairs and conveyed the Ruler of Sharjah's greetings to the participants, saying: "On this occasion, I am pleased to renew our thanks and appreciation to the Tunisian Ministry of Cultural Affairs for its efforts. I am honored to convey the greetings of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammad Al Qasimi and his wishes for success and achievement."

"Manifestations of Sharjah"

Khalid Khashir began by welcoming the attendees and delivered a speech on behalf of the Tunisian Ministry of Cultural Affairs, stating: "The Sharjah International Narrators’ Forum in Tunisia is one of the manifestations of Sharjah's cultural influence in the Arab world. It is of considerable importance as it focuses on short story writing. Its significance and radiance increase due to the collaboration between Tunisia and the UAE."

Khashir emphasized: "The Ministry of Cultural Affairs remains committed to fruitful and creative cooperation with the Sharjah Department of Culture."

He further discussed the forum's themes: "The themes addressed by the forum through research and discussion are a testament to the status of the short story since its emergence. The short story reflects the underlying dynamics of societies through its diverse topics."

The representative of the Tunisian Minister of Cultural Affairs, Ameena Al-Sararfi, noted that the forum has revisited the pioneers of Tunisian short story writing who excelled in depicting the depths of Tunisian society, emphasizing their unique artistic structuring of the story.

He added: "How wonderful it is to see Sharjah's lights shine in Tunisia, specifically in a palace that has hosted distinguished creators in the field of creativity, as we eagerly anticipate the desired renewal in the story and all creative dimensions."