As part of the ongoing Special week of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, the Embassy of India, Beirut organized a seminar in cooperation with the Elite Center of Culture and Education in Tripoli. The topic of the seminar was, “Exploring Civilization Linkages and Cultural Similarities Between India and Lebanon.” The Director General, Ministry of Culture, Lebanon and Ambassador of India to Lebanon Dr. Suhel Ajaz Khan were the keynote speakers for this event. The event was also graced by the presence of several prominent members of the Lebanese civil society of Tripoli. The seminar attracted large-scale participation from several sections ranging from students to businessmen.

The opening remarks for this seminar was delivered by the President of Elite Center of Culture and Education, Dr. Imane Dernaika Kamali. She spoke at length about the civilizational history of both the nations and the essence of humanity binding the two nations together. She humbly urged the Ministry of Culture, Lebanon to enhance the cultural ties of Lebanon with India.

Her remarks were followed by the speech of Director General Ministry of Culture, Dr. Ali Al-Samad. He called India as the, “Cradle of Eastern Wisdom” and paid reverence to the philosophies of Mahatma Gandhi, Rabindranath Tagore and others. He mentioned of establishing clear frameworks for cultural cooperation and showed eagerness to host Indian artists in various field of Arts, especially cinema and theatre.

Followed by the Director General's speech, the Ambassador shared his valuable insights on the Civilization and cultural linkages that both the nations cherish and rejoice. He shed light on the historical relations since the ancient times to the modern era of our independence. He navigated through the similarities that we share in various domains of political system, cuisines, music and dance etc. He said about the rich tribal handicrafts and artifacts which are on popular demand in the global arena. He eloquently emphasized on how India is becoming an educational hub and making a mark as a Centre for education globally with its quality education and affordability.

The seminar gave a glimpse of the culture harmony among both the nations where few songs were played through piano by a renowned pianist. A painting symbolizing the brotherly relation between the nations was presented to the Ambassador. The cultural performance was followed by awarding certificates to the participants who took part in the online session on Gandhian Philosophy. The prominent dignitaries were presented with shield as a token of love and friendship from India for their valuable cooperation in enhancing the cultural ties between the two nations.

It was followed by a reception where Indian and Lebanese delicacies were served. The seminar was very eventful as it brought up the rich cultural heritage of India to the civil society which will surely help in bridging the cultural ties among the two nations.