Dr. Mohamed Zine El Abidine, Head of ICESCO’s Culture Sector at the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), gave an address during the 19th Meeting of the Consultative Council for Cultural Development in the Islamic World, held by ICESCO in partnership with the Saudi Ministry of Culture in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on Monday, 10 February 2025.

In this regard, Dr. Zine El Abidine presented the Organization’s report on its achievements in culture, which included a set of successful initiatives aimed at promoting cultural affairs in its Member States, notably ICESCO’s Initiative on Cultural Rights and the Right to Culture in the Islamic World, which contributed to securing 21 programs for ten African Member States, with the number of beneficiaries reaching 1,000.

Moreover, he highlighted ICESCO’s Creative Intelligence Incubator, “Ibdaa,” which mentored young entrepreneurs across various cultural fields and supported 100 startup projects. He also announced the establishment of two new specialized centers: the Center for Calligraphy and Manuscripts and the Center for Poetry and Literature. Additionally, Dr. Zine El Abidine reviewed ICESCO’s Culture Capital program, which celebrates Marrakech, Shusha, and Benghazi for their rich cultural heritage within the Islamic world.

In conclusion, Dr. Zine El Abidine stressed that the Organization’s efforts in the cultural field align with its “Paths towards the Future” program, serving as a model for Member States to foster innovation and solidify culture as a foundational pillar.

The Consultative Council for Cultural Development in the Islamic World is convened to review the agenda, draft resolutions, and documents to be presented at the 13th Conference of Ministers of Culture in the Islamic World, scheduled for February 12–13 in Jeddah.