Saudi Arabia highlights historical ties with India at New Delhi World Book Fair

Indian scholars and officials gathered at the New Delhi World Book Fair to celebrate the longstanding cultural and historical connections between India and the Arab world.

The event organized by Saudi Arabia's King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives showcased the rich heritage shared between the two nations.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia attended as the guest of honor at India's second-oldest book fair, held from Feb. 10 to 18 at the Pragati Maidan Convention Center in New Delhi. The fair witnessed worldwide exhibitors of almost 2000 representatives.

Representatives from the King Abdulaziz Foundation led seminars and exhibitions focusing on the Arabic heritage in India.

The event featured a diverse array of cultural artifacts including books, manuscripts, calligraphy, traditional musical instruments, and handicrafts, offering attendees a glimpse into the shared historical narrative of the two nations. It provided a platform for highlighting the cultural exchange and mutual appreciation between India and Saudi Arabia.

During seminars, scholars and officials from both countries engaged in discussions about India's historical and cultural ties with the Arab world.

As reported in the Arab News, the CEO of King Abdulaziz Foundation - Turki Al-Shuwaier emphasized the importance of preserving these relations and highlighted the collaborative efforts between Indian and Saudi institutions to promote the Arabic language and heritage.

In a significant development, the King Abdulaziz Foundation and the National Archives of India signed a preliminary agreement in September to enhance research cooperation. This agreement aims to facilitate joint studies and exchange of archival expertise between researchers from both countries.

Indian scholars participating in the discussions reiterated the significance of such events in reaffirming the deep-rooted historical linkages between India and the Arab world. Professors Habibullah Khan and Nasim Akhtar from Jamia Millia Islamia University highlighted India's historical contributions to the Arabic language, literature, and cultural exchange.

Prof. Akhtar noted the presence of important Arabic manuscripts in Indian libraries, underscoring the enduring legacy of cultural exchange between the two regions. He praised the King Abdulaziz Foundation for its pivotal role in promoting and preserving Arabic language and literature, and also expressed appreciation for the Foundation's efforts in organizing the seminar.

The event served as a testament to the enduring cultural and historical ties between India and the Arab world, fostering greater understanding and appreciation of each other's heritage. Through collaborative initiatives and scholarly exchanges, both nations continue to strengthen their bonds and celebrate their shared history.