Al-Jassar: Consolidating National Identity and Evoking Values of Solidarity and Unity
Kuwait’s National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters launched the first day of yesterday (Wednesday) the events of the 18th edition of the “Summer Cultural Festival” at the Drama Theatre in the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Centre, under the patronage of Minister of State for Communications and Information Technology Affairs, Acting Minister of Media and Culture, and Chairman of the Council, Omar Al-Omar.
The opening ceremony began with the playing of the Kuwaiti national anthem, followed by a welcome speech delivered by the event’s host, Iman Al-Bazzaz. Dr. Mohammed Al-Jassar, Secretary-General of the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters, delivered a speech on behalf of the patron, welcoming the attendees and emphasizing that this edition marks the first cultural festival and the first major public event for the Council following the exceptional events Kuwait has experienced in recent times.
Al-Jassar stated that Kuwait, in its leadership, government, and people, has proven that its true strength lies in its national unity, social cohesion, and the resilience of its citizens. He noted that culture is not merely an entertainment activity, but one of the pillars of human development, safeguarding identity, and reinforcing values of belonging and loyalty to the homeland. He added that the festival’s slogan, “Through Culture, We Return Stronger,” underscores that culture has been and will remain a message of hope, a bridge for communication, and a platform for consolidating national identity and evoking the values of solidarity and cooperation that distinguish Kuwaiti society under various circumstances.
He clarified that the National Council is keen in this edition to present diverse cultural and artistic programs that combine literature, arts, theatre, music, and heritage, alongside activities dedicated to children, youth, and families. He pointed out that the festival program includes more than 40 events held across various cultural centers, libraries, and museums throughout the month of August. He noted that the opening ceremony features the musical concert “Samari with Al-Amari,” featuring artist Salman Al-Amari, who is considered one of the contemporary pillars of Kuwaiti folk heritage.
Al-Jassar conveyed his highest expressions of gratitude and appreciation to His Highness the Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah; His Highness the Crown Prince, Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah; and His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, Prime Minister, for their wise directives, which have been and continue to be a solid support for the nation under all circumstances. He also extended a tribute of respect and pride to the sons and daughters of Kuwait on the front lines, including members of the Kuwaiti Armed Forces, the Ministry of Interior, the National Guard, medical and health personnel, and all military and civil entities, in appreciation of their efforts and sacrifices in protecting the homeland, safeguarding its security, and ensuring the health of its citizens during exceptional circumstances.
The opening ceremony included the presentation of the musical concert “Samari with Al-Amari” by artist Salman Al-Amari, accompanied by Al-Mass Ensemble for Folk Arts, in an evening that evoked the features of Kuwaiti musical and vocal heritage and authentic folk arts. The festival, through its launch, emphasized the importance of folk arts as an integral part of cultural memory and national identity, as these arts recall the history of Kuwaiti society and the features of its life on land and sea, reflecting its emotions and experiences through various artistic forms.
