Jerash, Aug. 23 (Petra) -- The 40th edition of the Jerash Festival for Culture and Arts concluded Sunday at the Jerash Cultural Center with a closing ceremony honoring local cultural organizations for their contributions to the annual event.

Jerash Festival Director Yazan Al-Khudeir emphasized that the participation of local entities reflected effective coordination and partnership, highlighting the cultural identity and creative talent of the Jerash governorate. He noted that this collaborative model successfully engaged residents, fostering a sense of community ownership in the festival.

Mohammad Bani Yasin, head of the Greater Jerash Municipal Committee, affirmed that the municipality remains a strategic partner in the festival’s success. He stressed that institutional collaboration among the municipality, festival administration, local government, security services, the Ministry of Culture, and civil society was essential to executing the event.

Director of the Jerash Culture Directorate Oqlah Al-Qadiri stated that festival organizers ensured opportunities were provided for local cultural groups outside the initial agenda, widening local representation.

Speaking on behalf of the cultural entities, Mohammad Al-Mahasneh noted that local involvement highlighted regional creative talent and emphasized the importance of ongoing coordination for future events.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, Al-Khudeir presented awards to participating cultural groups in recognition of their contributions to the festival's success.

//Petra// AF