Alexandria:The Bibliotheca Alexandrina has launched its National Identity Charter during the 'Egyptian Identity: Deep-Rooted Heritage, Renewed Vision' conference. The event, held under the auspices of President Abdel Fattah El Sisi, featured high-profile attendees, including Minister of Higher Education Abdel Aziz Konsowa, Presidential Adviser Khaled Fouda, and Alexandria Governor Ayman Attia.
According to State Information Service Egypt, the conference served as a platform for dialogue on Egyptian identity, addressing challenges, roots, and components. Khaled Fouda emphasized the importance of such discussions in preserving the national identity and engaging younger generations. He noted that the conference would now be an annual event, expanding to various governorates and engaging the Egyptian diaspora.
The conference spanned three days, with discussions on topics like 'Identity in the Digital Age' and 'Education and Identity.' Fouda highlighted the importance of collaboration across society, not just within individual institutions, to maintain national identity.
Bibliotheca Alexandrina Director Ahmed Zayed presented the National Identity Charter, developed through societal dialogue and institutional collaboration. Zayed stressed the charter's role in reinforcing social cohesion, citizenship, and development. He highlighted its significance amid the challenges posed by globalization and digital transformation.
The charter aims to promote an inclusive national identity, rooted in Egypt's civilizational foundations, and embraces diversity to foster social cohesion and active citizenship. It includes objectives such as raising awareness of the threats to national identity, emphasizing social cohesion, and enhancing the Arabic language's role in reinforcing cultural identity.
Zayed explained that the charter seeks to preserve Egypt's artistic, literary, and scientific heritage, support creative capacities, and respect cultural rights. It also aims to strengthen society's resilience to navigate contemporary changes and support open engagement with the global community.