SHARJAH RULER BESTOWED PORTUGAL’S HIGHEST SOVEREIGN CULTURAL ORDER

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 3 (Bernama) -- Supreme Council Member and Sharjah Ruler, Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi has been awarded with Portugal’s Grand Collar of the Order of Camões by President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa.

Receiving the highest sovereign cultural order in Portugal, Sheikh Dr Sultan is the first Arab to receive the Order of Camões and only the sixth recipient worldwide, recognising his global stature as a leading figure in culture, intellectual thought, and intercultural dialogue.

According to a statement, the honour was conferred during a ceremony at the Presidential Palace in Lisbon, attended by Sharjah Book Authority Chairperson, Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, alongside senior officials.

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In his address, the Sharjah Ruler expressed his happiness with the honour and its cultural significance, describing it as a meaningful recognition from a nation renowned for its cultural heritage.

He said the award reflects pride in Arab culture, the cultural vision of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Sharjah’s conviction that culture is essential for human progress. He also thanked Portugal for its openness to world cultures and its commitment to dialogue between civilisations.

Meanwhile, President de Sousa highlighted the visit of Sheikh Dr Sultan as a reflection of the historical bonds of friendship between Portugal and the UAE. He emphasised their shared commitment to advancing cultural dialogue and understanding.

“As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the diplomatic relationship between the UAE and Portugal this year, I find no better way to mark this occasion than by honouring your enlightened and open personality, and by recognising your valuable contribution to dialogue between cultures, founded on intellectual dedication and shared empathy,” he added.

The Grand Collar of the Order of Camões, named after the poet Luís de Camões, is reserved in its highest grade for a limited number of leaders whose cultural influence extends beyond national borders.

The honour recognises the cultural project led by Sheikh Dr Sultan over five decades, through which knowledge, language, and history have served as enduring bridges for cross-cultural understanding.

-- BERNAMA