Algiers, Moscow Ink Cultural Cooperation Program to 2030

The Algerian Minister of Culture and Arts, Malika Bendouda, and her Russian counterpart, Olga Lyubimova, signed an executive program for cultural cooperation during the International Forum of United Cultures in St. Petersburg. This agreement establishes a new stage in Algerian-Russian relations, setting an institutional framework for joint cultural and artistic initiatives extending until 2030.

The cooperation program encompasses various fields, including artistic training, cinema, theatre, music, and heritage. It also facilitates reciprocal cultural events and days, reflecting a shared commitment to elevate cultural and artistic ties. The agreement aims to enhance coordination and joint action between institutions and cultural actors from both nations, fostering closer ties between the Algerian and Russian peoples. Discussions during the meeting also addressed preparations for the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 2027.

Specific areas of focus included developing cinematic cooperation, with an emphasis on training, the exchange of specialized expertise and skills, and documentary film production. Minister Bendouda underscored the historical depth of cultural and artistic training links, noting that numerous Algerian professionals in theatre, music, and arts received their education in Russia and now contribute to training new generations in Algeria. The Russian Minister, for her part, acknowledged the participation of Algerian children cadets in a cultural forum in Moscow, an event seen as further consolidating rapprochement between the two nations.