Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ahsa chaired a UNESCO Creative Cities Network meeting in Gabrovo, Bulgaria, this week. The gathering aimed to strengthen cultural cooperation and advance sustainable development among member cities.
Al-Ahsa Mayor Essam Al-Mulla presented his city’s extensive experience. He detailed how Al-Ahsa utilizes culture and creativity to bolster sustainable development, enhance social cohesion, and build connections between diverse peoples and cities.
Representatives from 20 cities within the network’s Crafts and Folk Art subnetwork attended the meeting. The Saudi Press Agency reported on the proceedings.
Al-Ahsa itself joined the UNESCO Creative Cities Network in 2015. This inclusion was the result of an initiative spearheaded by the Al-Ahsa municipality, marking its entry into the global cultural body 11 years ago.
UNESCO identifies Al-Ahsa as a preserver of approximately 50 traditional crafts and folk art practices. These include palm-based textiles, pottery, weaving, and joinery.
These traditional arts significantly support the local economy. They thrive through dedicated markets and vibrant cultural festivals, providing livelihoods and cultural expression.
Cultural Resilience and Innovation
During his address, Mayor Al-Mulla focused on several key themes. He spoke about culture and innovation, the interplay of technology and human skills, future investment, and collaboration among creative cities.
Al-Mulla also emphasized the crucial role of cultural creativity. It helps in preserving identity and strengthening community ties, he noted.
He articulated Al-Ahsa’s approach as deeply rooted in cultural resilience. This extends beyond mere heritage protection.
The city actively develops methods to preserve, practice, and transmit traditions to future generations. This process also involves adapting to contemporary changes.
Technology and artificial intelligence, Al-Mulla suggested, offer significant opportunities. They can develop traditional skills and knowledge, opening new avenues for artisans.
He clarified that technology should complement heritage, not replace it. It helps craftspeople innovate, document their work, and reach wider audiences and markets.
This technological integration, he stressed, must occur while preserving the authenticity and identity of their crafts. It's a delicate balance.
Investment in culture and creativity, Al-Mulla added, is fundamentally an investment in people and human relationships. It strengthens belonging, communication, and social cohesion within communities.
Fostering Global Cooperation
Ibrahim Al-Shubaith, coordinator of Creative Al-Ahsa and lead coordinator of the network’s Crafts and Folk Art cluster, offered his perspective. He described culture as a form of soft power for peace.
Al-Shubaith also highlighted culture as an effective means of fostering understanding. It brings communities closer together, he asserted.
He underscored the importance of coordinating efforts and exchanging experiences. This is vital for developing the crafts and folk art sector.
Such coordination strengthens its contribution to sustainable cultural development. It ensures traditions endure and evolve.
The meeting’s overarching goal was to expand cooperation and knowledge-sharing among member cities. It aimed to advance joint work in crafts and folk art.
Ultimately, the gathering sought to reinforce the role of culture and creativity. These elements are central to shaping cities’ futures.