'Culture is Sharjah’s soul': Sharjah Week opens in St Petersburg

Sheikh Fahim bin Sultan Al Qasimi opened proceedings

People pass over the bridge through the Winter groove in St Petersburg. EPA

A festival of collaboration and cultural exchange between Russia and the Emirates has begun in St Petersburg.

Sharjah Week aims to strengthen longstanding Russian-Emirati ties and display the emirate’s latest achievements in sectors of bilateral interest between the two cities – mainly culture, economy and tourism.

The St Petersburg Museum is hosting the week-long cultural showcase, which is part of cultural days around the world to show Sharjah's creativity.

The international cultural activity was launched by Sharjah in 2002 to promote knowledge and expertise exchange with cities worldwide.

Sheikh Fahim bin Sultan Al Qasimi, chairman of Sharjah's Department of Government Relations, reaffirmed the continually strengthening relationship between the UAE and the Russian Federation.

"Sharjah Week is a new turning point and an important step to continue our bilateral journey in investment, trade and tourism," Sheikh Fahim said at the opening of the week.

"We are now on a new path to strengthen this relationship through culture and heritage.

"Sharjah is home to over 45,000 students and academicians, one of the many intellectual and cultural achievements that we pride ourselves on. Culture is Sharjah’s soul."

The Sharjah National Band amazed audiences with traditional Emirati performances, offering them a glimpse of the UAE’s rich folk heritage.

Visitors toured the Sharjah Week pavilions displaying traditional Emirati crafts and folklore, Arabic calligraphy and more.

The week is organised by the Sharjah department in co-operation with the emirate's Culture Department, Institute for Heritage, Commerce and Tourism Development Authority, Airport Authority, Museums Authority and the Dr Sultan Al Qasimi Centre for Gulf Studies.