His Excellency Dr. Abdulaziz Al Musallam, Chairman of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage (SIH) and Chairman of the HigherCommittee for Sharjah Heritage Days (SHD), received HE Nicola Lener, the Ambassador of Italy to the UAE at the ongoing 18th edition of the cultural festival in Heart of Sharjah.

During a tour, the Ambassador and an accompanying delegation were briefed on the various activitiesand events taking place at the three-week festival. They visitedthe pavilion of the Republic of Montenegro – SHD’s guest of honourthis year,and explored other stands and pavilions highlighting Emirati, Arab and international cultural heritage.

Thanking the Ambassador for his visit, Al Musallam said it reinforced SHD's goals to turn the spotlight on the customs, traditions and social practices of the UAE and other nations of the world, and work towards promoting the cultural movement in the country and across the region.

During the visit, the Ambassador and the accompanying delegation watched several folk performances and observed with keen interest a range of traditional handicrafts demonstrated by Emirati women at the Heritage Crafts Village pavilion. 

HE Lenerlauded Sharjah’s efforts in organising cultural events that enable visitors to learn about and explore diverse cultures from around the world. He also spoke highly of the level of creativity evident in the numerous live activities and programmes taking place atthe Sharjah Heritage Days until April 10.