Qatar Museums Authority Launches Qatar UK 2013

Doha, November 18 (QNA) - Qatar Museums Authority on Sunday launched Qatar UK 2013 to celebrate the long-lasting friendship between the two countries in the presence of HE chairperson of the Qatar Museum Authority Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad Al Thani, , Ed Dolman, QMA executive director, Ed Vaizey MP, Minister for Culture, Communications and Creative Industries for the UK, and HE Minister for Culture, Arts and Heritage Dr Hamad bin Abulaziz Al Kuwari. Michael O'Neill, British ambassador to Qatar, Graham Sheffield, director arts, British Council, and Martin Hope, British Council director in Qatar, were also present. The celebration is in partnership with the Ministry of Culture, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the British Council, the British embassy in Doha and the Qatari embassy in London. Inspired by the Qatar National Vision for 2030, Qatar UK 2013 aims to forge new partnerships in education, sport, creative industries, and science, while promoting an awareness and appreciation of each other s culture, achievements, and heritage. Events will take place in Qatar and across the UK, showcasing the quality, diversity, breadth and innovation of creative Britain and Qatar. Art exhibitions organised by QMA, cultural events at Katara and the screening of a British cinema series by the Doha Film Institute are among the calendar of events that both nations will host throughout 2013. Qatar UK 2013 will kick off at the Cultural Village, Katara, with the opening of Encounter: The Royal Academy in the Middle East on December 6. The exhibition aims to spark a dialogue between Royal Academy members and Middle Eastern artists, fostering cultural exchange and better understanding of one another s artistic practices. The exhibition is the result of a combined effort by the Royal Academy, Fortune Cookie Projects and Katara. Commenting on the importance of the Cultural Diplomacy Program, HE Sheikha Mayassa stated: "We are proud of the success achieved with Qatar Japan 2012, and we hope next year will give us the opportunity to further promote cultural dialogue and programs that build bridges between nations. We are looking forward to a year of valuable cooperation and exchange, which will celebrate our cultures and friendship." Vaizey said: "Qatar UK 2013 will celebrate the best of our two nations, showcasing the finest we have to offer in the fields of culture, art, sport and education while looking to the exciting new opportunities for the future." Sheffield described Qatar as a dynamic supporter of arts and culture, and explained that sharing innovative ideas and practices from both sides, building new audiences for the arts, and developing creative talent across society are at the heart of Qatar-UK 2013 Year of Culture. (QNA)