As part of ongoing efforts to enhance cultural cooperation and preserve heritage, the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) has signed three executive agreements with the Saudi Ministry of Culture and the Heritage Commission of Saudi Arabia.

These agreements focus on documenting the art of Arabic calligraphy, supporting the inscription of cultural heritage, and developing the creative capacities of individuals across the Islamic world.

The signing took place alongside the 13th Conference of Ministers of Culture in the Islamic World, held in Jeddah.

The first executive agreement, signed by Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of ICESCO, and Mr. Rakan bin Ibrahim Al-Touq, Saudi Assistant Minister of Culture, aims to document the evolution of Arabic calligraphy across different historical periods with contributions from experts and specialists in the field. This initiative will also involve collecting manuscripts, inscriptions, and artistic works, while a joint task force from ICESCO and the Saudi Ministry of Culture will oversee its implementation.

The second executive agreement, also signed by both parties, seeks to support intellectuals, writers, and artists across the Islamic world. Under this initiative, ICESCO and the Saudi Ministry of Culture will provide specialized training to enhance creative skills, offer opportunities for participation in regional and international cultural and artistic events, and establish platforms for cultural and intellectual exchange.

Regarding the third executive agreement, Dr. Salim M. AlMalik signed the agreement with H.E. Hamid bin Mohammed Fayez, Saudi Deputy Minister of Culture. This program, to be implemented over three years, aims to build capacity for nominating and inscribing historic sites on ICESCO’s cultural heritage lists.

Under this agreement, both parties will coordinate with ICESCO Member States to nominate specialists for participation in training programs, develop training materials, provide experts, and establish mechanisms for selecting trainees and speakers. Additionally, an awareness campaign will be launched to promote the programs and highlight its outcomes.

It is worth noting that the signing of these three executive agreements is part of a Memorandum of Understanding signed between ICESCO and the Saudi Ministry of Culture in 2022, which aims to strengthen cultural cooperation, preserve heritage, and support creativity across the Islamic world.