Arab Culture Days are being held in Lithuania for the fifth time. The unique event, which will take place on December 15-18, promotes cultural dialogue between Lithuania and the countries of the Middle East. Today's art, literature and discussions become a bridge that connects different cultures, promotes mutual understanding and helps to overcome stereotypes, writes the Vilnius University (VU) Faculty of Philosophy press release.

The organizers and partners of Arab Culture Days, including the Lithuanian National Commission for UNESCO, the Forum of Arab Culture, "Vilnius City of Literature", the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Lithuania, the Faculty of Philosophy of VU, the Sultan Qaboos Institute in Oman, the Egyptian Embassy and other organizations, emphasize the purpose of the event - to create connections between countries through art and culture.

"Often our understanding of the Middle East is limited to stereotypes or negative narratives, but this event provides an opportunity to get to know the traditions, history and people of this region more deeply. It's also an opportunity for Arab countries to discover Lithuania, its culture and history," says Gintarė Sereikaitė-Motiejūnė, doctoral student at the Institute of Asian and Transcultural Studies of the Faculty of Philosophy of VU. This year's program focuses exclusively on Egypt, the country that will be participating for the first time in the cycle of events. In addition, Palestine and Oman traditionally participate in the event. Each year, the program acquires new emphases, but the main mission remains the same - to educate and promote intercultural dialogue.