National Editorial
The news, reported in The National yesterday, that the Ruler of Sharjah, Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, has funded the refurbishment of a 13th century Christian monastery in Armenia should come as no surprise. The UAE and its leaders are well known for their philanthropic and charitable ventures in a variety of fields, both at home and abroad.
In Sheikh Sultan’s case this generosity has often expressed itself through his interest in science and culture. He holds a bachelor’s degree in agricultural engineering and a doctorate in history, and last month he was inducted as a member of the Academy of Sciences of Lisbon.
In accepting the Academy Medal, he stressed the importance of cultural communication and building “bridges of knowledge” to promote understanding and tolerance among all cultures.
The donation to the Haghartsin monastery, which Sheikh Sultan visited in 2005 at the invitation of the former president of Armenia, Robert Kocharian, underscores that philosophy, and demonstrates his respect for other religions and for the ties between the two nations.
The idea of giving across borders, be they physical or cultural, is a positive example to us all.
