Mohamed Maloud, the CEO of the Timidwa Association in Mali, emphasized that the cultural ties between the United Arab Emirates and Mali trace back to Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s visit to the historic city of Timbuktu in 1985. He noted that this landmark visit laid a strong foundation for communication and friendship between the two nations, which continues to resonate deeply in the hearts of the Malian people.
This statement was made during his remarks to the Emirates News Agency while attending the Abu Dhabi Cultural Summit 2025, where he described the summit as a prestigious global platform for fostering cultural exchange and celebrating shared human identity.
Maloud expressed his profound admiration for the visionary leadership of the UAE, noting that the clarity of this vision has transformed the country into a global model for promoting cultural and human diversity. He expressed pride in participating in this cultural event, which he referred to as the most significant on the global stage among all the gatherings he has attended.
He also conveyed his deep appreciation for the UAE’s initiatives aimed at supporting cultural diversity and preserving human heritage, looking forward to ongoing efforts that promote cooperation and peace among different peoples worldwide.
Additionally, Maloud discussed the activities of the Timidwa Association, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the heritage and culture of the Tuareg people. He explained that it serves as a central hub for safeguarding cultural identity and fostering creative expression, bringing together over 150 artists and artisans specialized in silver crafting, woodworking, and leatherwork.