On 1st December Qatar University hosted a ceremony to launch a special cultural exhibition entitled ‘The beauty of Islamic Manuscripts – the Leiden collection’. Those present at the ceremony included HE Dr Hamad bin Abdulaziz al Kuwari, Minister of Culture, Arts and Heritage in Qatar, Prof Sheikha Abdulla al Misnad, President of Qatar University, HE Yvette van Eechoud, the Dutch Ambassador to Qatar, and Dr Luit Mols, curator of the collection at the National Museum of Ethnology in Leiden, the Netherlands.
Daan Elffers, EMG CEO: ‘This is a magnificent exhibition, which will undoubtedly inspire people to appreciate the historical and cultural significance of these beautiful works of art. I am very grateful to the Dutch ambassador to have invited me to this very special event.’
The exhibition, which features Qur’an calligraphy, depictions of Mecca and Medina, scientific works, illustrated works of prose and poetry, and decorative motifs within various art forms, is running from 1 – 17 December and marks the 400th anniversary of Arabic studies at Leiden University. During this considerable time rich historical bonds have been established between the Arab and Islamic world and the Netherlands.
Under the patronage of the Qatari Minister of Culture, Arts and Heritage, the exhibition has been initiated by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the National Museum of Ethnology in Leiden. The Qatari Minister explained that the exhibition was a celebration of the strong relationship between Qatar, the Arab Islamic world and the Netherlands. It is hoped that this cultural event will contribute to continuing positive cooperation between all involved.
Elffers, who was visiting Qatar to present at the annual CSR summit in Doha, also had talks with management and faculty of the business and economics department of Qatar University on the topics of CSR and sustainable development. He said he was delighted to be able to incorporate this enriching cultural experience into his stay.
Article: EMG CSR in Qatar