European Film Festival opens in Khartoum

Dr. Ahmed Bilal Osman, the Minister of Culture and Information launched the fourth European Film Festival which was inaugurated in a ceremony hosted by the European Union Delegation. England, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Austria, Norway, Switzerland, Poland, Greece, Turkey and Sudan are participating in the festival this year with 20 films including 7 Sudanese films.

Dr. Ahmed Bilal said cinema is an important art and needs attention in Sudan highlighting the role of private sector in promoting arts in Sudan. The minister praised the role of European cultural centres in training and teaching in Sudan.

Ambassador Tomas Ulicny, Head of Delegation of the European Union to Sudan said that Europe is present in Sudanese cultural scene through the cultural centres, archaeological missions, and cultural exchange programs and funding of cultural projects in Sudan. Ambassador Tomas Ulicny stressed the importance of cultural cooperation and dialogue between Sudan and Europe.

Ms. Lilli Kobler, the director of Goethe Institut addressed the opening by explaining the importance of the festival programs and progress since the last three years. The event was attended by diplomats, actors and actresses, Sudanese cultural icons, private sector and visiting European directors. The audience were entertained by Sharhabil Ahmed and his Jazz Band.