The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) and the Libyan National Commission for Education, Science and Culture announced the initiation of the Celebration of Benghazi as the Capital of Culture in the Islamic World 2024 during a press conference attended by Mr. Abdul Hamid Dbeibah, Prime Minister of the Government of National Unity of the State of Libya and Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, ICESCO Director-General (DG), Dr. Musa Muhammad Al-Maqrif, Libyan Minister of Education, President of the Libyan National Commission for Education, Science and Culture, as well as several ministers and senior officials.

In his address at the press conference, held in the Libyan capital of Tripoli, on Tuesday, May 7, 2024, Mr. Dbeibah stated that the celebration of Benghazi as the capital of culture in the Islamic world attests to its esteemed status and rich heritage as a beacon of knowledge, and home to the first university in Libya. Moreover, Mr. Dbeibah commended the initiatives of ICESCO aimed at enhancing the identity and culture of the Islamic world, expressing his full support for all the activities of the Celebration.

At the outset of his speech, Dr. AlMalik praised Benghazi’s illustrious history and its great figures who impacted the fields of arts, thought, and science throughout the ages. Dr. AlMalik highlighted the prominent landmarks of the city that reflect its unique civilizational heritage, including the Sanabel Theatre, Al Manar Palace, the tomb of Omar Mukhtar, and Benghazi Lighthouse.

ICESCO DG affirmed that the Organization will spare no effort in ensuring the success of the programs and activities of the Celebration and that it will continue its commitment to support Libya in its areas of competence. Dr. AlMalik concluded his speech by delivering a poem he wrote for this occasion titled “The Virtuous Benghazi.”

For his part, Dr. Al-Maqrif stated that Benghazi is deserving of its selection as part of ICESCO’s Culture Capitals Program, given its historical significance and notable contributions to science, thought and culture. Dr. Al-Maqrif noted that this year-round Celebration will include organizing several cultural, heritage, scientific, educational, and sporting activities in various Libyan cities.

Moreover, Mr. Ibrahim Hadiya Al-Majbari, Chairman of the Higher Committee for Celebrating Benghazi as the Capital of Culture in the Islamic World, stated that Culture unifies the people of Libya and that this Celebration is an occasion to promote the Heritage of Benghazi.

At the end of the press conference, Dr. AlMalik and Mr. Dbeibah exchanged honorary shields.