Officials pose for a photo after the ceremony.

The MoU was signed in the presence of Rashid Mohammed Al Kous, Executive Director of the Emirates Publishers Association; Abdullah Al Kaabi, chairman of the board of directors of the EPA; Fahd Ali Al Maamari, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Emirates Libraries and Information Association; and a number of members of the Board of Directors of the Emirates Library and Information Association.

Al Kaabi highlighted that this agreement aligns with the association’s steadfast commitment to strengthening cooperation, fostering collaborative efforts, and facilitating the exchange of experiences with all institutions operating within the knowledge sectors. The ultimate goal is to advance the publishing sector in the UAE and establish it as a sustainable and thriving industry catering to diverse fields of knowledge. He also emphasised the complementary roles played by the EPA and the ELIA in supporting the endeavours of publishing houses and promoting UAE knowledge and cultural development.

He added: “This agreement contributes to providing enhanced resources for authors and publishers, with the overarching objective to foster increased knowledge production. Additionally, we aspire to produce specialised publications that specifically cater to the needs of professionals in the library sector, equipping them with the latest insights and developments. These collective efforts are instrumental in elevating the competitiveness of the UAE’s publishing sector and amplifying its cognitive and economic influence.”

For his part, Fahd Ali Al Maamari said: “The initiatives, projects, and specialised events, along with the successful experiences of the Emirates Publishers Association, fill us with optimism about the future of this collaboration for the mutual benefit of both parties. Aligned with the remarkable advancements in the libraries, information, and publishing sectors and driven by our shared commitment to promoting knowledge and culture, we developed and disseminated cutting-edge educational, training, and qualification programmes to provide the latest advancements and resources to individuals interested in these fields. Through this collaboration, we strive to achieve our common goal of fostering the growth and enrichment of knowledge and culture.”

The Emirates Libraries and Information Association is preparing to launch a pioneering publishing grant initiative designed exclusively for members of the Emirates Publishers Association. The primary objective of this initiative is to offer financial support to eligible publishers, enabling them to print a maximum of five original books specialising in the library sector. Through this initiative, the ELIA seeks to encourage the creation of fresh and innovative content that caters to the specific needs and interests of the library sector.

From Aug.1 to 31, EPA member publishers seeking to participate in the initiative can register their interest via the website. The results of the initiative will be announced in December of this year.