Qatar Museums and ACDF to expand cooperation in art and heritage preservation

**Qatar Museums and ACDF to Expand Cooperation in Art and Heritage Preservation**

Qatar Museums and the Art and Culture Development Foundation of Uzbekistan (ACDF) have entered into a five-year cooperation agreement aimed at strengthening cultural ties between the two countries. This document establishes a long-term institutional framework for joint research, artistic initiatives, professional capacity building, and the preservation of cultural heritage.

The agreement was signed by Qatar’s Minister of State for International Cooperation and Board Member of Qatar Museums, Dr. Lolwah bint Rashid Al-Khater (Dr. Mariam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad), and the Chairperson of ACDF, Gayane Umerova.

The partnership is developing within the framework of Qatar's cultural diplomacy and the "Years of Culture" initiative. It envisions combining human capital development with support for the creative economy through joint programs and projects.

Chairperson of Qatar Museums, Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, stated that investing in culture is, first and foremost, an investment in people. According to her, the new partnership unites the goals of heritage preservation and talent development, opening up additional opportunities for international cooperation among creative professionals.

Gayane Umerova emphasized Uzbekistan's centuries-old heritage as a crossroads of civilizations and noted the significance of the agreement in shaping a sustainable future for artists and creative communities.

Under the agreement, Qatar Museums and ACDF plan to develop cooperation in professional training, creative industries, and the preservation of Islamic heritage. The planned programs include artist residencies, professional training, and joint exhibitions.

The parties also intend to implement multi-sectoral initiatives in design, crafts, cinema, fashion, and culinary arts.

Special attention will be paid to the restoration and protection of Islamic cultural heritage sites, including through the exchange of professional experience and expertise.

The new agreement complements existing cultural initiatives between Uzbekistan and Qatar. The Museum of Islamic Art in Doha is hosting the exhibition "Uzbekistan: Heritage in Motion" from September 3 to November 28.

In parallel, the "Ektashif Uzbekistan Exhibition" is being presented, featuring original works by Qatari artists created during their recent cultural trip to Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara.

Previous projects include Uzbekistan's participation in the inaugural Design Doha Biennial. Additionally, at the end of 2024, the Qatar Fund for Development allocated a grant of $4.175 million for the restoration of the historic Bibi-Khanym Mosque complex in Samarkand.