http://www.mathaba.net/rss/?x=598258London opens doors to Europe's biggest Islamic cultural extravaganza
Posted: 07/12
From: MNN
London's Olympia exhibition halls opened its doors Friday to tens of thousands of visitors attending IslamExpo 2008, Europe's largest celebration of Islamic culture, tradition, innovation and art.
The five-day all-encompassing event follows the successful launch of the unique opportunities for Muslims and non-Muslims to appreciate the best of Islamic heritage at the first IslamExpo in 2006.
"This year promises to be bigger and better. Visitors can expect to enjoy concerts, fashion, comedy and cuisine from all over the Muslim world," said Ismail Patel, Director of IslamExpo.
"With over 80 speakers from around the globe taking part in over 25 debates, IslamExpo aims to encourage dialogue and debate on a range of pertinent issues," Patel said.
Iran's Cultural Office is being represented by way of a pavilion at the exhibition, which features works by Mohammad Baqer Amirkhani, Ali Reza Pahlavan zadeh, Ali Reza Asadi in the fields of illumination, miniature, enamelling and engraving.
Ali Mohammad Helmi, Iran's cultural attache, is also due to deliver a lecture on the role of Iran in flowering Islamic civilization on Saturday.
IslamExpo's vast exhibition space is being themed into 14 'zones' over 2 floors comprising: sport, cookery, family activities, fashion, health & lifestyle, Islamic gardens, knowledge, entertainment, arts, education and much more.
Themes this year include forums on key issues affecting society and the world today and tackles such topics as: How to understand the Quran, Who represents British Muslims?, The Islamist Threat: Myth or Reality?, Muslims and the Environment: The Green Jihad.
Preceding the event, an 'Ethical Investment in Britain Conference' was held on Thursday, examining how London can become the world leader in Islamic Finance. --IRNA
http://www.islamexpo.com/