Baghdad: Iraq and France are exploring expanding their cultural partnership and launching joint projects. The Prime Minister’s Advisor for Cultural Affairs and Director General of the General Directorate of Cultural Affairs, Dr. Arif Al-Saadi, recently held a meeting with a high-level French delegation to discuss ways to enhance cultural cooperation between the two nations. The focus of the discussions was on strengthening partnerships in the fields of culture, literature, and translation, alongside launching joint cultural projects.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the French delegation included Emilie Schneider, the representative of Expertise France in Iraq and Syria, Deputy French Ambassador to Baghdad Mounir Slimani, and Warith Kuwaish, Director of the “Cinematheque of Iraq” project. The meeting addressed several cultural initiatives, with particular emphasis on the proposed Iraqi Museum of Contemporary Art. Additionally, efforts were discussed to support projects that aim to revitalize the cultural scene and enhance intellectual and creative exchanges between Iraq and France.

Dr. Al-Saadi highlighted the significance of advancing international cultural cooperation and converting it into practical and sustainable projects. These efforts are intended to support the Iraqi cultural landscape and strengthen the role of cultural institutions in promoting literature, art, and knowledge.

The French delegation expressed its commitment to developing cooperation with Iraqi cultural institutions. The delegation affirmed its support for initiatives focused on preserving cultural and artistic heritage and enhancing Iraq’s presence in international cultural forums.