Amdjarass: Prime Minister Rimtalba Jean Emmanuel Ouedraogo participated in the official opening ceremony of the 6th edition of the International Festival of Saharan Cultures (FICSA) in Amdjarass, Chad. This event is dedicated to promoting cultural diversity, sustainable tourism, and dialogue between the Sahara's peoples.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the Prime Minister attended alongside Niger's Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine. The ceremony was held under the patronage of President of Chad, Marshal Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno, represented by Chadian Prime Minister Allah Maye Halina. The participation of Sahelian delegations highlighted the political and fraternal dimensions of the event, emphasizing the region's commitment to using culture as a means of integration, peace, and development.

Chadian Prime Minister Allah Maye Halina stated that FICSA is more than a cultural celebration, contributing to the development of Saharan areas as hubs for culture, tourism, and economic opportunities. He stressed the importance of using tourism to create sustainable jobs and called for solidarity and cooperation among Saharan peoples.

Minister of Communication, Culture, Arts and Tourism, Pingdwende Gilbert Ouedraogo, representing the Burkinabe delegation, praised Chadian hospitality and highlighted the historical ties between Burkina Faso and Chad. He conveyed greetings from President Ibrahim Traore and emphasized culture's role in social cohesion, sovereignty, and sustainable development.

The theme of this year's festival, "South-South Cooperation: Culture and Sustainable Tourism for Inclusive Territories," was discussed as a strategic tool for fostering closer ties and promoting international influence. Minister Ouedraogo invited artists and cultural operators to participate in Burkina Faso's 22nd National Culture Week.

Prime Minister Ouedraogo's attendance reaffirms Burkina Faso's support for regional cultural initiatives promoting dialogue, African fraternity, and Sahelian integration. It also reflects ongoing exchanges between Burkina Faso and Chad, with Chadian leaders attending several events in Burkina Faso.

Festival-goers in Amdjarass experienced the rich cultural heritage of the Saharan peoples through performances by artistic troupes from Niger, Burkina Faso, Morocco, Mauritania, and several regions of Chad, promoting immersion and connection among the Sahara's peoples.