Shaikh Abdulla bin Hamad valued highly the Takreem initiative, describing it as a pioneering one aiming to promote Arab creativity through encouraging Arab innovation and achievement.
He added that it has motivated Arab individuals and establishments to bring about more successes and contributed significantly in upgrading the quality of life across the Arab World.
Shaikh Abdulla praised the essential role played by the Culture Ministry, represented by Minister Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa, in this regard through supporting the initiative, participating in it and holding it in Manama, the Capital of Arab Culture for this year.
He also pointed out that hosting such functions in the kingdom enriches the cultural momentum, enhances Bahrain’s position as a hub of Arab tourism and culture, promotes dialogue and communication and consolidate national unity through various intellectual contributions.
Culture Minister Shaikha Mai delivered a statement in which she asserted that culture and the Arabic language have unified Arab peoples, praising “Takreem” as an initiative that promotes Arab creativity and honours Arab creators.
Shaikha Mai also said that Manama, as Capital of Arab Culture for 2012, is the home to Arab intelligentsia, artists and creators.
It is worth noting that the prize-distribution ceremony of Takreem was held in Bahrain this year as part of the Manama as Capital of Arab Culture function.
The prize is awarded in the following categories: Philanthropy and Charitable Services, Environmental Development and Sustainability, Scientific and Technological Achievement, Innovation in Education, Cultural Excellence, Arab Woman of the Year Award, Young Entrepreneur Award and Outstanding Corporate Leadership and Exceptional International Contribution to Arab Society.
The jury includes Queen Rania Al-Hussain, Culture Minister Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa, Dr. Nuha Al-Hujailan, Royal Advisor André Azoulay, Dr. Mohamed El-Baradei, Dr. Lakhdar Ibrahimi, Executive Director of the Renault Nissan Alliance in Lebanon Carlos Ghosn, novelist Marl Livi, novelist Amine Maalouf, Dr. Leila Shraf and businesswoman Raja Saidawi.
TAKREEM aims to be a source of inspiration for Arabs worldwide, and seeks to identify and promote Arab accomplishments by highlighting Arab excellence and leadership in multiple fields.
Lebanon hosted the first edition, while Qatar hosted the second.