RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Culture Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan announced on Wednesday that 2020 will be designated as the “Year of Arabic Calligraphy.” The announcement was made on the United Nations’ World Arabic Language Day. The Year of Arabic Calligraphy will be a celebration of the ancient art, focusing on its aesthetics, history, and its importance in expressing the full depth of the Arabic language, as well as its vital role in passing Arabic culture down through generations. The ministry will organize a number of events and activities to promote Arabic calligraphy, and it will encourage government agencies and civil institutions to participate in these events, which will provide a platform for aspiring and established calligraphers. The Year of Arabic Calligraphy is part of the ministry’s ongoing efforts to showcase important facets of Arabic culture.