Somalia Participates in a Welcoming Meeting Hosted by President Putin for Cultural Forum Leaders

Somalia participated in a welcoming meeting hosted by the President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin, for leaders and officials attending the 12th International Cultural Forum , taking place in St. Petersburg, Russia.

The Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism of Somalia, Abdifatax Qasim Mahmud , was among the Somali officials attending the forum, with discussions focusing on culture, heritage preservation, and strengthening international cooperation in the fields of arts and culture.

The Somali government media also confirmed that the Minister met with the Russian Minister of Culture, Olga Lyubimova, in St. Petersburg to discuss strengthening cooperation between the two countries.

President Putin, in a speech at the event, emphasized the role of culture in bringing peoples together and continuing dialogue during times when political and economic relations become strained.

Additionally, there was a focus on preserving cultural diversity, youth participation, and the exchange of knowledge and experiences.

This year's forum is attended by ministers and high-ranking officials from many countries. Official Iranian media reported that the forum brought together officials and individuals from the arts and culture sectors from nearly 70 countries , with 44 official delegations present.

During his stay in St. Petersburg, Minister Abdifatax Qasim held a bilateral meeting with the Russian Minister of Culture, Olga Lyubimova. The meeting addressed the preservation and development of cultural heritage, arts, literature, theaters, and cultural research.

The two sides also discussed the exchange of experts and artists, the development of cultural centers, and accelerating cultural cooperation agreements between Somalia and Russia.

Minister Abdifatax Qasim stated that Somalia places special importance on culture and the arts, noting that culture plays a role in preserving national identity, connecting communities, and strengthening the relationship between the peoples of the two countries.

Somalia's participation in this forum also allows the Somali side to showcase the richness of Somali heritage, culture, and arts , while sharing experiences with other countries regarding the preservation and development of culture.

On the other hand, the Somali Minister stated on September 25 that Africa needs effective cooperation based on mutual respect with countries and international organizations, particularly regarding the restitution of Africa's cultural heritage.

The St. Petersburg forum thus represents an opportunity for Somalia to engage in global discussions about the future of culture, heritage preservation, and expanding relationships among cultural institutions from various countries.