Baghdad: The Undersecretary of the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Antiquities for Cultural Affairs, Dr. Fadhil Al-Badrani, held talks with Ambassador Mohammed Samir Al-Naqshbandi, Director General and Head of the Mission of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). The meeting, which also included Dr. Zahra Al-Jubouri, Director of the Media and Government Communication Department, focused on exploring joint cultural cooperation aimed at promoting Iraq’s Islamic cultural heritage and enhancing its presence within the Islamic world.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the discussions centered on establishing mechanisms for coordination between the Ministry and the OIC office in Baghdad. The aim is to highlight the historical significance of Baghdad and the rich cultural and civilizational heritage of other Iraqi cities. There was also a focus on collaboration in areas such as Iraqi manuscripts, documents, Arabic calligraphy, and the visual arts.

Dr. Al-Badrani noted that the inauguration of the OIC mission office in Baghdad presents a significant opportunity to expand cultural cooperation. He stressed that this collaboration could open new avenues for coordination and joint ventures, which will play a vital role in promoting Iraqi culture and heritage on the international stage.

Both parties concurred that the events marking Baghdad as the Capital of Culture of the Islamic World for 2026 would serve as a launching pad for cooperation. This will involve coordination and participation in joint cultural programs and activities, paving the way for a strengthened cultural partnership between the Ministry and the Organization in the forthcoming period.