Katara - the Cultural Village honoured Dr Hassan al-Nama, a well-known Qatari writer and poet, presenting him ‘Litterateur Trophy’ award at a ceremony held at Katara Publishing House on Thursday night.

A documentary film on the life and contributions of the writer was screened on the occasion, which was attended by a number of dignitaries including ministers, writers and intellectuals. The film screened the milestones of the life of the poet and ambassador Dr al-Nama since his birth in 1943, and the responsibilities he assumed since his appointment as ambassador of Qatar to India and the permanent representative of Qatar to the United Nations, along with some of his poetry readings.
Dr Khalid bin Ibrahim al-Sulaiti, general manager, Katara – the Cultural Village, said the opening of Katara Publishing House represents a pioneering step towards the establishment of an integrated cultural project aimed at spreading the country's outstanding creative works in culture, heritage, knowledge and arts. 
“The establishment of the publishing house is considered one of the major steps that Katara has taken to promote culture, knowledge and literature in Qatar. Katara has taken into account the importance of printing and publishing in the promotion of literature and innovation,” he added.
Al-Sulaiti said that the honouring Dr al-Nama is a recognition of his important contributions to culture, literature and thought. 
Talking to Qatar News Agency (QNA), Dr al-Nama praised Katara's initiative and said he was very pleased and proud of the establishment of the Katara Publishing House. “It reflects the progress and prosperity witnessed in our country,” he added. 
He pointed out that the house will contribute to the building of civilisation and cultural development in the country and contribute to the cultural enrichment of the Arab countries by supporting Arab, Islamic and human culture, and bridging communication, love, convergence and harmony among them.
Dr Mohammed Kafoud, a writer and former minister, praised Katara's launch of the publishing house, pointing out that the publishing house not be limited to Arab creativity and thought but will include global creativity, as part of Qatar's interest in arts and literature in various languages as well as its interest in other fields.
The Katara Publishing House, which was opened on Thursday, aims to become a driving force behind publishing industry in Qatar and a connecting link between readers and writers. It is located next to Building No. 15 at Katara, close to the Amphitheatre Boulevard.