Mogadishu – Somalia’s Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism, Daud Aweis, has expressed gratitude for the opportunity to address the XI St. Petersburg International United Cultures Forum, urging nations to transform cultural exchange into tangible partnerships that directly benefit communities across the globe.
Speaking at the high-level gathering, Aweis highlighted the importance of cultural diplomacy as a tool for peace, mutual understanding, and socio-economic development. He emphasized that Somalia, with its rich heritage and diverse traditions, stands ready to engage with international partners in initiatives that not only celebrate culture but also generate opportunities for youth, artists, and entrepreneurs.
The St. Petersburg International United Cultures Forum, which convenes policymakers, academics, and cultural leaders from around the world, provides a platform to strengthen dialogue on shared values and to explore cooperation in areas such as heritage preservation, creative industries, and people-to-people connections.
Aweis underscored that cultural cooperation must move beyond symbolic exchanges to create real impact at the grassroots level.
“Cultural diplomacy should be translated into practical projects that empower communities, create jobs, and foster inclusive growth,” he said, noting that Somalia sees culture as both a unifying force and a driver of development.
Delegates at the forum exchanged views on global cultural challenges, from safeguarding intangible heritage to leveraging digital platforms for wider cultural access. For Somalia, participation in such forums reflects the government’s broader commitment to international engagement and to positioning culture as a vital component of national recovery and resilience.
The minister’s remarks were welcomed by participants who echoed the call for deeper, actionable cultural partnerships that strengthen bonds between nations while directly uplifting local communities.