Saudi Cultural ministry signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with France in Jeddah strengthening cultural ties between the two countries.
The signing of the MoU coincides with President Mr. Emmanuel Macron’s official visit to Saudi Arabia, coming only weeks after Saudi Minister of Culture, Prince Badr bin Farhan met with his counterpart, Dr. Roselyn Bachelot, in Paris.
Under the 5-year agreement, Saudi Arabia and France have committed to enhancing cultural cooperation and exchange across a broad range of cultural fields, including architecture, audiovisual production, design, film, heritage, literature, performing arts and visual arts. In addition, the MoU will facilitate the two countries to explore cultural regulations and policies.
The MoU will also provide opportunities to increase the participation of Saudi and French artists in residency exchange programs and boost cooperation between artists and cultural institutions in both countries.
In recent years, Saudi Arabia and France have developed stronger cultural ties as a result of joint projects, programs, and initiatives, including the signing of a historic cooperation agreement in 2018 to support the development of the culture and heritage of AlUla Governorate.
In November this year, Prince Badr met with Dr. Bachelot and several other French cultural leaders and institutions in Paris where he addressed the UNESCO General Conference.
The Kingdom is hosting a vibrant cultural program of over 100 cultural events, initiatives, and engagements before the end of the year, including its first art biennale, Ad-Diriyah Biennale, and first major international film festival, the Red Sea International Film Festival, which will feature French classics.
