The Saudi Heritage Commission and Japan’s Motoko Katakura Foundation for Desert Culture signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) in Riyadh on Sunday. This partnership aims to strengthen efforts in preserving and promoting Saudi Arabia’s rich desert heritage.
Jasser bin Sulaiman Al-Harbash, CEO of the Heritage Commission, and Hiroshi Nawata, chairman of the Motoko Katakura Foundation, formalized the agreement. Both parties committed to working together in the cultural heritage sector, focusing on research and preservation initiatives.
Honoring a Legacy: The Story Behind the Foundation
The Motoko Katakura Foundation honors the late anthropologist Motoko Katakura, who dedicated her life to studying Bedouin communities in Saudi Arabia and neighboring regions. Her work laid the foundation for understanding desert cultures and their significance.
The MoU emphasizes enhancing research on both tangible and intangible cultural heritage, including traditions, customs, and historical sites. This collaboration will deepen the understanding of Saudi Arabia’s desert culture.
Seminars and Research to Highlight Desert Culture
The Motoko Katakura Foundation plans to organize seminars showcasing its efforts in preserving desert culture and archaeological sites like Al-Dafi Port and Mardouma in Jubail, eastern Saudi Arabia. These events will highlight the region’s historical and cultural significance.
The Heritage Commission will benefit from Japan’s expertise in research and documentation, ensuring the preservation of Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage. Local communities will play a key role in these efforts, fostering a sense of ownership and pride.
Showcasing Saudi Arabia’s Rich Desert Culture
Through this partnership, Saudi Arabia aims to showcase the richness of its desert culture to the world. The collaboration will also promote cultural exchange and strengthen ties between Saudi Arabia and Japan.
This landmark agreement marks a significant step in preserving Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage while fostering international cooperation in the field of cultural preservation.
