Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi received the Armenian Honour Award by the Speaker of Armenian Parliament, on behalf of Armenian President, Serzh Sargsyan, for his pledge to fund the renovation of the Armenian medieval complex, Hagardzin.

Hagardzin is considered a historical cultural monument in Armenia that dates back to the 13th century.

On the occasion of receiving the medal, Sheikh Sultan said: “We have seen the Armenian people’s love for the Arabs, which is not new, but is rooted in the depths of history. During our last visit, the people welcomed us with love.

Therefore, we exchange love and respect with them, and we pray to God to guide them to what is good for their country.”

The announcement comes as a continuation of the project launched by Dr Sultan Al Qasimi Centre, which aims to highlight on a monthly basis one of the distinctive pieces from the collection of Sheikh Sultan, which represents exceptional achievements in various fields.

Recently, The popular theatrical works of Sheikh received a grand reception in Madrid and Cordoba, the historic capital of Andalusia.

Elite intellectuals and academics have discussed and celebrated the rich legacy of Sharjah Ruler’s theatrical works, including those translated into Spanish, as part of the “Sharjah Literary Days” event organised by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) in cooperation with Cása Árabe, which is operated as the strategic centre for Spain’s relations with the Arab world.

The event follows a 2019 agreement between SBA and Cása Árabe, which was signed in the presence of the Ruler of Sharjah to strengthen bilateral collaboration.

The event was held in the presence of Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, SBA Chairman; Majid Hassan Mohamed Al Suwaidi, Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to the Kingdom of Spain; Dr Abdul Aziz Al Musallam, Chairman of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage; Bachar Yaghi, Ambassador of the League of Arab States to the Kingdom of Spain; diplomats, media persons, and officials representing the UAE and Spain.

Moderated by Muhammad Majid Al Suwaidi, two sessions to discuss a selection of the most notable works of Sheikh Sultan were organised in Cása Árabe in Madrid and in Cordoba.

Emirati actor and producer, Ahmed Al Jasmi; actor and theatre researcher Lola Botello; and Spanish writer and playwright Julieta Soria, led the discussions, which began with a video presentation of Sheikh Sultan’s works including Nimrod, Holaku’s Return, Reality .. A True Copy, The Case, Alexander the Great, Mighty Samson, Da’esh (ISIS) and Al Ghabra’a, and The Book of Allah: A Play on The Conflict between Light and Darkness.

Speaking about the plays, Al Jasmi said: “The theatrical works of the Ruler of Sharjah are based on historical events, not just as a narration of the past, but also to provide context to the incidents. History gives us the opportunity to learn from past mistakes, and helps us understand the many reasons why people may behave the way they do. Most importantly, His Highness very subtly urges us to heed the lessons that history teaches us so as not to repeat past mistakes which can lead to chaos, confusion and even disintegration of nations.”

He added: “His Highness’ theatrical works highlight his great command over the language and precise use of words to convey a point. They are great examples of the Sharjah Ruler’s facility with words and demonstrate his love for the art form.”

For her part, Botello said: “I was very impressed with the Spanish translations of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan Al Qasimi’s theatrical works which are true hallmarks of his great intellect.

They convey a wealth of knowledge and address many issues related to the human experience and existence. I am truly honoured to participate in this event.”