More than 400 literary men and thinkers from all over the world have been invited to participate in the festival. The participants will discuss a number of topics, including the vision of King Abdullah for dialogue and peace. Abdullah Al-Rabeah, Minister of Health, said that the festival represents a blend of the “glorious past, prosperous present and bright future.” The festival embodies the Islamic and Arab identity of Saudi Arabia and strengthens its attachment to its heritage and cultural roots that will be passed on to future generations, he said. The Ministry of Health, for the past years, has actively taken part in the festival showcasing the development of health care in the Kingdom since the times of the late King Abdul Aziz, the minister said. Since the beginning of the festival 25 years ago, the Kingdom has been turned into a cultural lighthouse through a variety of cultural activities and a consolidation of the culture of dialogue, said Bandar Al-Qinawi, executive director of health care at the National Guard. The mission of the National Guard has gone beyond the military and has demonstrated social responsibility by turning the spotlight on the country's heritage and culture every year, he added. Suhaib Abdul Ghafar, secretary general of the Islamic Shariah Council in the United Kingdom, said that the festival reflects the true Islamic culture that grew in the Arabian Peninsula, making it a “great opportunity” for the world to learn more about early Islamic culture. Abdullah Kan'an, general secretary of the Jordanian Royal Committee for Jerusalem Affairs, said that this cultural event would show the “true and beautiful image of Islamic and Arab culture inspired by Islam, true Islam, not that of those who have distorted our culture and image.” “Those extremists have hijacked the true image of Islam helping the enemy to target the culture and identity of the Ummah,” he added. The festival carries a message of love, peace, and brotherhood to the entire world saying that “We are your partners in all fields”. The Riyadh Literary Club will host the main poetry evening at 8:00 P.M. on Saturday with a participation of a galaxy of Arab poets.
