Doha: Qatar University (QU), through its QU Press, hosted a launch event for the Arabic translation of “Under the Sign of Leo: A History of Islamic Italy” at its campus. The event was attended by HE Paolo Toschi, Ambassador of the Italian Republic to the State of Qatar, Prof. Aiman Erbad, Vice President for Research and Graduate Studies at QU, and members of the academic community and the Italian Embassy.
According to Qatar News Agency, Shaikha Al-Thani, Director of QU Press, highlighted the cultural significance of the project and the longstanding partnership with the Italian Embassy. She stated that the collaboration aims to enhance cultural exchange and improve Qatar’s image internationally by publishing peer-reviewed academic works that address important societal issues. Al-Thani noted that this translation is part of a broader initiative to promote the Arabic language through academic publications.
HE Ambassador Paolo Toschi expressed his satisfaction with the renewed cultural cooperation, emphasizing the historical ties between Italy and the Islamic world. He noted that the collaboration with QU has produced significant outcomes, such as the translation of works highlighting the deep-rooted connections between Italy and the Islamic world, which have influenced various fields like science, architecture, and language.
Prof. Aiman Erbad acknowledged the importance of the Arabic translation of “Under the Sign of Leo: A History of Islamic Italy” as a testament to the rich civilizational exchange between Arab and Italian cultures. He commended the joint efforts of QU Press and the Italian Embassy in fostering academic collaboration, recognizing the translation as a testament to the shared history that unites the two regions.
Dr. Amedeo Feniello, the author of the book, expressed his appreciation for the translation project, seeing it as a bridge between researchers and cultures. He hoped it would strengthen ties between Italian historians and Qatar University, fostering a fruitful relationship between Italian culture and Qatar’s academic community.
The project is part of QU Press’s initiative to build academic and cultural dialogue with international institutions, supporting scientific research and promoting cultural openness globally.