The Heritage Commission signed a memorandum of understanding with the Motoko Katakura Foundation for Desert Culture to enhance international cooperation in cultural heritage preservation.
Riyadh, January 06, 2025 — The Heritage Commission has furthered its commitment to preserving and promoting cultural heritage through the signing of a significant memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Motoko Katakura Foundation for Desert Culture. The agreement, aimed at enhancing international cultural cooperation, was formalized in a ceremony held at the Heritage Commission’s headquarters in Riyadh. The signing event was attended by key figures, including Dr. Jasser bin Sulaiman Al-Harbash, Chief Executive Officer of the Heritage Commission, and Dr. Hiroshi Nawata, Chairman of the Foundation’s Board of Directors. Other officials and experts in the field of cultural heritage were also present, marking an important milestone in the strengthening of global partnerships in cultural conservation.
This MoU outlines the strategic collaboration between the Heritage Commission and the Motoko Katakura Foundation, with a shared goal of advancing research and studies related to both tangible and intangible cultural heritage. This includes exploring traditional customs, cultural practices, and diverse societal traditions that contribute to the unique identity of the region. The partnership will focus on utilizing the expertise and experience of both organizations to support initiatives that preserve the cultural richness of desert communities, particularly in areas of archaeological significance. The agreement also highlights the potential for joint seminars, which will serve as platforms for the exchange of knowledge, showcasing the work of the Motoko Katakura Foundation in desert culture preservation. Notably, these efforts will be directed toward notable archaeological sites such as Al-Dafi Port and the Mardouma site, emphasizing the protection of Saudi Arabia’s desert heritage.
A key component of the MoU is the collaborative effort to engage local communities in research and documentation activities. The involvement of local stakeholders is seen as critical to ensuring the sustainability of preservation efforts and fostering a deeper understanding of the historical and cultural value of the region’s heritage. The joint initiative also envisions building a bridge between international and local experts, creating a collaborative framework that promotes mutual learning and support. This partnership, set to unfold over the coming years, is expected to provide significant opportunities for further collaboration in the cultural heritage field, opening doors to both local and international initiatives that will contribute to the ongoing safeguarding of Saudi Arabia’s cultural legacy.
Through this collaboration, the Heritage Commission aims to enhance global appreciation of both Saudi and desert culture, recognizing the importance of preserving cultural narratives for future generations. This partnership aligns with the broader objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, reinforcing the Kingdom’s commitment to maintaining its rich heritage while fostering international cooperation in the realm of cultural conservation. The agreement between the Heritage Commission and the Motoko Katakura Foundation is set to be a cornerstone for future endeavors in the protection of heritage and the promotion of cultural exchange.