Babylon:The head of the Babylon Festival of Cultures and Arts, Ali Al-Shalah, emphasized the crucial role of national capital in supporting culture and the arts, which he believes is essential in maintaining their independence. He acknowledged the significant contributions from national companies that supported the current edition of the festival and commended the efforts of government and security agencies in ensuring its success.

According to Iraqi News Agency, Al-Shalah made these remarks during the festival’s closing ceremony, noting the participation of guests from various Arab countries and international figures, from Canada to Baghdad. He stressed the importance of national capital as a key supporter of culture, warning against making culture and art the first casualties of austerity measures.

Al-Shalah expressed gratitude to AsiaCell, the festival’s permanent sponsor, and the Baghdad Soft Drinks Company for their contributions, along with other sponsors and supporters. He also thanked the Prime Minister and his office director, Ihsan Al-Awadi, for their involvement in discussing the festival’s mechanisms and ensuring its success.

The participation of UNESCO in the festival was also highlighted by Al-Shalah, with its representative attending the opening day and the book fair inauguration. He praised the efforts of the security forces, including the Babylon Police Command, Tourist Police, National Intelligence Service, and National Security Service, for securing the festival and protecting the ancient city of Babylon. Al-Shalah concluded by thanking all participants, supporters, and organizers for their roles in the festival’s success.