Doha, May 20 (QNA) - Cultural diversity is a fundamental pillar of sustainable development, as it enhances social cohesion, stimulates innovation, and deepens mutual understanding, said Maryam Al Saad, CEO of the Katara Public Diplomacy Center and Head of International Affairs at Katara. She emphasized that the Cultural Village Foundation - Katara is committed to transforming this diversity into sustainable projects that integrate culture into the core of development strategies and contribute to building a more inclusive and balanced society.

In remarks to Qatar News Agency (QNA) on the occasion of the World Day for Cultural Diversity, observed annually on May 21, Al Saad said the occasion marks an important milestone to renew Katara’s - and the international public diplomacy network’s- commitment to the values of pluralism and openness. It is a time to celebrate humanity’s cultural richness and promote dialogue and understanding among peoples. She affirmed that cultural diversity is not only a source of richness but also an effective tool for building peace and fostering rapprochement among societies.

She highlighted that Katara has launched numerous initiatives that promote cultural diversity, most notably the “Cultural Diversity Festival,” which features participation from more than 20 countries worldwide. In addition, Katara regularly hosts cultural festivals, national days and weeks, joint art exhibitions, and workshops featuring international artists and creatives. These events allow visitors to engage with diverse cultures and appreciate their unique attributes.

Al Saad added that Katara’s multinational events provide a vibrant platform for the convergence of cultures and civilizations, where each culture presents its narrative to the world in a dynamic and human-centered manner. This contributes to breaking down stereotypes, opening new pathways for dialogue and understanding, and promoting values of coexistence and tolerance both locally and globally.

On the topic of cultural diplomacy, she stressed that Katara regards it as a strategic tool for achieving sustainable development by promoting human values and cross-border understanding. In this regard, Katara integrates cultural diplomacy into its projects, while the International Public Diplomacy Network expands this mission globally through partnerships with cultural institutions in various countries.

Speaking about the network’s vision for promoting cultural public diplomacy, Al Saad stated that the network views culture not merely as an aesthetic expression but as a tool for positive influence and constructive dialogue. The network works to leverage public diplomacy to showcase local cultures on the global stage and foster shared human understanding through interactive platforms and international initiatives that connect peoples and institutions.

She highlighted some of the network’s key initiatives aimed at promoting cultural diversity globally, including the European Language Day, held in cooperation with the European Union and European embassies in Doha. This event offers valuable cultural and linguistic insights by showcasing the diversity of European languages and cultures.

Al Saad noted that this initiative has enabled each European country - such as Sweden, Spain, Portugal, Greece, and Italy - to share its language and cultural identity and build meaningful dialogue with diverse communities. Other initiatives by the network highlight unique experiences from different societies and foster partnerships with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and cultural centers to implement expertise exchange programs.

She reiterated that the network believes culture serves as a powerful mechanism for positive impact and dialogue, not just as an artistic medium. Through global platforms and initiatives, the network helps promote cultural understanding and cooperation.

Al Saad further emphasized that the network embodies Qatar National Vision 2030 by activating soft power as a force for peace and influence. It facilitates cultural dialogue and fosters cooperation in the fields of art, education, and heritage, reinforcing Qatar’s standing as a global cultural hub that champions peace, openness, and innovation.

When addressing the role of youth, she explained that the network places particular emphasis on empowering young people as future leaders of public diplomacy. Initiatives include the “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development” campaign, launched in conjunction with International Youth Day 2024, which aims to raise awareness of available opportunities, increase youth participation in community development, and foster a sense of global citizenship. During its current presidency of the network, Katara also launched the official website and organized workshops and training courses to enhance youth capacities and prepare them to become ambassadors of dialogue and tolerance.

Concluding her remarks to QNA, Al Saad pointed to tangible successes in fostering civilizational dialogue through the network’s initiatives, notably the organization of international forums that bring together intellectuals and decision-makers from diverse cultures, and the launch of cultural partnership programs that have promoted understanding between Asian, European, and Arab societies. She noted that feedback from participants reflected the positive impact of these efforts in challenging stereotypes and reinforcing mutual respect.

UNESCO celebrates the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development on May 21 each year to emphasize the vital role of intercultural dialogue in promoting peace and sustainable development. The occasion also highlights the importance of cultural diversity, inclusion, and dialogue as tools for overcoming stereotypes and polarization, and for improving mutual understanding and coexistence among people of different cultures. (QNA)