H.E. Ms. Malika Bendouda, Algerian Minister of Culture and Arts, chaired the opening ceremony of the International Forum on Manuscript Heritage, titled “Ink Routes in Algeria: Civilization and Heritage,” held on June 15, 2026, under the high patronage of H.E. Mr. Abdelmadjid Tebboune, President of Algeria.

The event was attended by high-level officials, including ministers, advisors to the President, representatives of constitutional and consultative bodies, senior state officials, ambassadors from several brotherly and friendly countries, as well as representatives of accredited diplomatic missions in Algeria. Participants  also included manuscript collectors, researchers, experts, and academics specializing in manuscript heritage from Algeria and abroad.

In her opening remarks, the Minister emphasized that manuscripts are not merely isolated records of the past, but are rather the essence of national identity and a fundamental pillar in building civilizational ties. She highlighted significant progress in digitization efforts, noting that nearly 40,000 manuscripts have already been digitized, with a commitment to reaching 80% digitization of the remaining manuscripts within the next two years.

Ms. Bendouda further explained that the concept of “Ink Routes” goes beyond a heritage project to become a strategic initiative that promotes equitable access to knowledge and combats all forms of its monopolization. She described manuscripts as an instrument of soft power and a cornerstone of cultural diplomacy.

The Forum is organized as part of national efforts to protect, preserve, and promote Algeria’s cultural heritage, which represents a key pillar of national memory and a central component of the country’s civilizational identity—particularly manuscript heritage, which stands as a living testament to Algeria’s rich scientific, intellectual, and cultural contributions throughout history

Participants discussed several themes related to manuscript preservation mechanisms, as well as techniques for restoration, digitization, reproduction, and dissemination. National and international experiences in preserving, restoring, and digitizing manuscripts were also showcased.

ALECSO was represented, on behalf of the Director-General, by Dr. Humaid Al Nofali, Director of Culture, and Dr. Imed Soula, Heritage Expert in the same department.