“Ibdaa” Cultural Centre of the Iraqi Business Council hosted on Monday October 19th 2026 the book signing event of “Diplomatic Literature in the Anthology of Arab Poets and Diplomats” by Dr. Nawal Al-Hawar, a media figure, poet and writer specializing in cultural affairs. The event was attended by H.E Engineer Samir Al-Habashneh, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Zarqaa University, Dr. Saad Naji, IBC Deputy Chairman, Secretary-General and founder of “Ibdaa” Culture Centre, as well as a distinguished crowed of intellectuals, literary figures and persons interested in cultural affairs.
Dr. Saad Naji welcomed the attendees and introduced Dr. Nawal Al-Hawar and her cultural and intellectual career. He highlighted the significance of the book in documenting the experiences of Arab poets who combined literary creativity with diplomatic service most notably poets Abdul Munem Al-Rifai, Nizar Qabbani and Omar Abu Risha, emphasizing that poetry transcends geographical boundaries and conveys a universal human message that contributes and fosters communication and rapprochement among peoples of the world.
For his part, H.E Eng. Samir Al-Habashneh praised Dr. Al-Hawar’s literary and cultural experience, noting that her writings reflect an authentic Arab identity, and keenness to strengthening the unity of the Arab consciousness. He also commended the efforts of the Iraqi Business Council and “Ibdaa” Centre in supporting cultural activities and embracing Arab creative figures and intellectuals.
In turn, Dr. Al-Hawar outlined the stages involved in preparation of her book, explaining that the idea originated approximately fifteen years ago with the aim of documenting Arab literal experiences combining between poetry and diplomacy. She highlighted examples of prominent Arab poets and diplomats, who contributed to enriching the Arab cultural scene including the prominent Iraqi poet Abdul Wahab Al-Bayati. She also stressed the importance of culture and knowledge in confronting conflicts and crises, highlighting their role in promoting dialogue and human communication, noting that the second part of her book would explore other literary experiences including that of the late Jordanian poet Haider Mahmoud.
The event featured cultural discussions in which the attendees lauded the book’s literal and documentary value, as well as its emphasis on the Arab identity. The event then concluded with the author signing copies of her publication for the attendees in an atmosphere that reflected the importance of such gatherings in strengthening cultural exchange and celebrating Arabic creativity.
This literary event forms part of the Council’s ongoing efforts, through “Ibdaa” Cultural Centre, to support literary and cultural activities, celebrate Arab creative talents and promot cultural exchange between Iraq, Jordan and other Arab states.
