Kazakh and French ministers of culture sign cooperation agreements
On the eve of the official visit of President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to France, the Minister of Culture and Information of Kazakhstan Aida Balayeva, met with the Minister of Culture of France Rachida Dati, Kazinform News Agency reports.
The discussion centered on the potential for enhancing cultural collaboration between Kazakhstan and France. The ministers highlighted the notable advancement in cultural relations, underscoring the significance of reciprocal visits by the presidents of the two states, which serve to reinvigorate joint endeavors.
During the meeting, the parties signed a number of agreements, including a declaration of intent for cooperation in the field of museums and cultural heritage, as well as a memorandum of understanding between the National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Musée Guimet.
“The promotion and integration of Kazakh historical and cultural heritage into the global humanitarian landscape represents a key priority within the cultural policy of the state,” Minister Balayeva noted.
Furthermore, it was proposed that collaboration in the realm of research be reinforced and that internships be made available to Kazakh specialists within the framework of the Courants du Monde program.
“I am glad that the Kazakh President’s state visit to France encompasses a comprehensive range of cultural matters. The signing of several memoranda today evinces the already considerable degree of collaboration between the two parties. Furthermore, the organization of Kazakhstan's national exhibition at the Musée Guimet exemplifies the tangible and efficacious nature of our bilateral relations," stated the French Minister of Culture, Rachida Dati.
Aida Balayeva expressed confidence that the agreements reached will facilitate a further deepening of cultural ties and establish a foundation for new joint projects that will reinforce relations between Kazakhstan and France.
“We may consider the possibility of collaboration in the implementation of joint cultural initiatives, including the production of cinematic works, the presentation of contemporary Kazakh literature in France and vice versa, the interaction of concert organizations, and the development of content for children,” Aida Balayeva added.
The ministers discussed the potential for exchange of expertise in the museum sector, with a view to improving the preservation of historical heritage and the introduction of new technologies in museum business.
They also expressed interest in cooperation in the creative industry, with a particular focus on fashion. Aida Balayeva suggested that ethnic fashion should be a priority area for collaboration at an international level.