Qatar Announces Cultural Partners for Next Years

Qatar's Years of Culture initiative has announced its cultural partners for the next few years, Qatar News Agency eported on Saturday.

The programme will see cultural exchanges with Italy in 2028, the Netherlands and Switzerland in 2029, and Portugal and Spain in 2030. This builds on existing partnerships with Egypt and Greece for 2027.

The initiative, launched in 2012, aims to foster greater understanding and lasting relationships between Qatar and other nations through various cultural activities. It reflects Qatar's belief that cultural collaboration supports dialogue, strengthens international ties, and builds respect across borders.

HE Chairperson of Years of Culture Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad Al-Thani said the initiative continues to expand Qatar's bonds of friendship with countries worldwide through meaningful cultural exchange. 

The partnerships will explore Qatar's connections with countries whose cultural legacies inform dynamic contemporary creative scenes.

The partnership with Italy will focus on archaeology, fashion, design, and heritage preservation. The year will coincide with the opening of Qatar's permanent national pavilion in Venice's Giardini della Biennale.

The Netherlands and Switzerland, known for their global leadership in innovation, diplomacy, and sustainability, will partner with Qatar in 2029. In 2030, Qatar will partner with Portugal and Spain, continuing its tradition of cultural exchange with FIFA World Cup host countries.

Qatar collaborates closely with cultural institutions, embassies, artists, and educators to present a diverse calendar of events across Qatar and its partner countries.

The initiative creates lasting institutional partnerships, professional networks, and people-to-people connections.

The Years of Culture initiative has been running for 15 years, supporting Qatar's creative industries and social and economic development. It has previously partnered with countries such as Argentina, Chile, Canada, and Mexico.

Qatar's cultural programme often begins in the lead-up to the official year and continues well beyond, creating a lasting impact.