Maria Leissner: The BA Gives Pride to the Entire World and Not Only Egypt
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Alexandria—
Maria Leissner, Ambassador for Democratic Issues, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Sweden, visited the BA and the Swedish Institute, as part of her first visit to Alexandria.
During her visit to the BA, Ambassador Leissner met with Dr. Ismail Serageldin, Director of the BA, and Ambassador Hagar Islambouly, Head of the BA External Relations Sector. HE Ambassador Leissner stated that the history of Alexandria over ages and its pioneer cultural role thousands of years ago renders it a city of science and knowledge. She added that the entire New Library is fascinating, and that the BA gives pride to the entire world and not only Egypt.
She also praised the role played by Dr. Serageldin in developing the Library since its inauguration and adding essence and content to its mission. She stated that what the BA achieved to-date surpassed all expectations. After reviewing the new technological capabilities in the BA, such as the Internet Archive and its connection with other global networks, HE Ambassador Leissner described the BA as a temple and a source of knowledge for the whole world.
Ambassador Leissner also referred to the current role played by the BA in conducting dialogue and rapprochement between cultures, the role of Arab Reform Forum, chaired by Dr. Mohsen Youssef, in creating an atmosphere of dialogue between Arab parties. She commended the BA's fight against book banning, which is a basic principle of freedom and knowledge.
Finally, Ambassador Leissner much admired the activities of the Swedish Institute in Alexandria targeting women and youth in the field of research and scientific exchange.