First South Asian film festival

ABU DHABI // The UAE's first South Asian film festival will be launched this weekend, with the countries saying it shows their solidarity in the face of recent attacks and strife. Diplomats from the countries - India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Nepal - gathered at the Sri Lankan Embassy yesterday to announce the line-up for the SAARC festival, named after their regional co-operation organisation. The six films - two from Sri Lanka and one from each of the other countries - all carry strong messages about internal conflict and reconciliation. While avoiding mention of specific security issues, the diplomats indicated in separate speeches that they hoped the festival would help strengthen ties between their communities.

"This sort of co-operation will help our South Asian countries to heal many of our pains," said Mohammed Nazmul Quaunine, the Bangladeshi ambassador. "We have to work together in order to realise our common interests," added Talmiz Ahmad, the Indian ambassador. The films will be screened at the Cultural Foundation from March 7 to 11. They are subtitled in English and Arabic and admission is free.

* The National