Saudi Arabia, France to drive innovation in music, museums
JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia's Museums Commission has signed an executive program with the Cite de la Musique — Philharmonie de Paris to enhance cooperation in the fields of museums and music.
The agreement, which align with the Kingdom's cultural ambitions under Vision 2030, aims to strengthen cultural ties and foster joint initiatives between the two countries.
It was signed by Museums Commission acting CEO Ibrahim Alsanousi and Philharmonie de Paris CEO Olivier Mantei.
Key areas of cooperation are artifact loans, shared collections, and the exchange of historical musical instruments with the Tariq Abdulhakim Museum in Jeddah.
The program also covers collaborative traveling exhibitions and cultural events.
Mona Khazindar, adviser to the Ministry of Culture, told Arab News: 'This partnership is the Kingdom's commitment to fostering international cultural collaboration and enriching our national institutions through global expertise.
'It directly supports the objectives of Vision 2030 by enhancing the cultural ecosystem, promoting artistic education, and ensuring that our museums become vibrant centers of learning and creativity.
Khazindar added: 'The Museums Commission's strategy emphasizes innovation, inclusivity, and the preservation of our cultural heritage, and this collaboration will play a pivotal role in realizing that vision — especially through initiatives that engage youth and families in meaningful cultural experiences.'
The program includes the development of training and educational initiatives for children and families, such as workshops and interactive installations adapted from the Philharmonie's programs for young audiences.
It also facilitates the exchange of expertise through researcher visits, seminars, and collaborative academic publications related to both permanent and temporary exhibitions.
Alsanousi emphasized the importance of the agreement, calling it a significant milestone in strengthening cultural ties between Saudi Arabia and France.
He said: 'Music plays a vital role in cultural identity, and this partnership will support the transformation of the Tariq Abdulhakim Museum into an interactive and inspiring hub for musical education and engagement.'
Mantei praised Saudi Arabia's cultural vision and affirmed that the partnership reflects a spirit of constructive cultural exchange.
He also highlighted the agreement as a foundation for future projects that promote artistic and societal dialogue between the two countries.
Tayeb Altayeb, acting director of the Tariq Abdulhakim Museum, said: 'This is a transformative step in the development of the Tariq Abdulhakim Museum. It allows us to bring world-class musical artifacts and educational experiences to our audiences while honoring the legacy of one of the Kingdom's most iconic musical pioneers.
'Through this, the museum will evolve into an interactive cultural hub that not only preserves Saudi Arabia's rich musical heritage but also inspires future generations to explore and engage with music as a vital part of our national identity.'
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