GCC discusses Arabic language conservation in Riyadh

The Coordination Forum for Universities and Institutions concerned with the  Arabic Language began in Riyadh last night, in cooperation with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the forum was opened by the Saudi Minister of Higher Education, Dr. Khaled Bin Mohammad Al Angari, General Supervisor of the King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz International Arabic Service Centre and is set to discuss the importance of the Arabic language, present and future, and the Gulf States' efforts to preserve it.

Al Angari stated that Arabic was the first language of civilization in the world due to its potential for adequate and positive characteristics. It is one of the most important ways to build the nation and protect its integrity.

Dr. Al Angari went on to say that in the Kingdom, since its founding by the late King Abdulaziz, Arabic has been paid constant attention and is of great importance as an element of Islamic identity as it is a secure container for our thoughts, our feelings and our culture. It is a link between all the generations.

He noted that the concerted efforts made by the Kingdom and brothers from Arab countries involved intensive diplomatic discussions, and culminated in the United Nations General Assembly designating Arabic as its sixth official language. It is also the official language of 22 Arab member states and is spoken by 422 million people.

The forum, which lasts three days, is being held under the patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia, as organized by the King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz International Arabic Language Service.

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