Khartoum- As part of its efforts for boosting contacts and solidarity with the peoples of the world

, the Sudanese Council for International People’s Friendship (CIPF) has participated with a delegation that comprised all sectors of the Sudanese people and the Balembo Musical Band in the 10th Arab Culture Festival, held in the South Korean capital of Seoul during the period August 30-September 5.
The cultural festival has attracted big participation by the Sudanese and Arab communities in Seoul besides considerable South Korean audience.

The Sudanese Music Band Scores First Place

The Sudanese Balembo Musical Band’s performance at the opening show of the festival, which was held at Seoul International Theater, scored the top place among participants in the festival which was staged under the patronage of the Korean-Arab Association.
The Charge d’ Affaires of Sudan Embassy in Seoul Ambassador Al-Rayah Haidoub has said the festival is considered the sole cultural activity linking the Arab world and South Korea, pointing out that it aims at enlightenment of the Korean people with the culture and arts of the Arab states.
He indicated that participation of a number of artists from Arab states such as Iraq and Tunisia besides the Sudanese Balembo Music Band reflects genuine Arab cultural diversity.
The Sudanese music band has also given shows at the Asia Culture Center in Gwangju town in South Korea, reflecting the rich and varied cultural heritage of the country attracting big response from the Korean audience, he noted.

State Minister Received amid Balembo Music Band’s Performance

The occasion coincided with an official visit to South Korea by State Minister at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Hamid Mumtaz at the invitation of the Korean Government for talks with his South Korean counterpart Choi Jong on ways and means for boosting further bilateral relations in the political and economic fields besides technical cooperation.
The State Minister’s program also included meetings with Korea International Cooperation Agency, Korea Trade Investment Promotion Agency and the Deputy Mayor of Seoul.
The State Minister joined the celebration organized by the Sudanese Embassy and Community in South Korea on the occasion of Eid Al-Adha.

Outing Journey

He also participated in an outing journey by members of the Sudanese embassy and community in South Korea and their families organized on the occasion of Eid Al-Adha, where he was received by music performances and shows.
Addressing members of the community, the State Minister reviewed the outcome of the National Dialogue in Sudan, affirming the government’s commitment to boost the dialogue process and openness towards the other.
The occasion was also addressed by Ambassador Haidoub and a representative of the Sudanese community, Fadlallah Khatir.

Balembo Music Band Reflects Bright Image of Sudan

Balembo Music Band is specialized in genuine Sudanese popular music and dances from all parts of the country, north and south east and west.
It endeavors to reflect the rich and varied culture and heritage of the Sudan to the world.

Honoring Certificates and Presents Awarding

At the conclusion of the occasion, honoring and appreciation certificates were awarded to members of the Sudanese Balembo Music Band, Chairman of the Sudanese-Korean Association Samir Ahmed Gassim, Director of the Asian Department at CIPF Taj-Alsir Mohamed Khair and his deputy Asila Abdul-Rahim.
The awards were presented by State Minister at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Charge d’ Affaires of the Sudanese Embassy in Seoul.
It is to be noted that CIPF will continue its participation in the people’ activities in the various countries of the world; it is scheduled to participate in the activities of “Sudan Week in Italy” this month.