US Research Museum Signs Culture Pact with Cambodia
Ministry of Culture and the Smithsonian Institution signed a Memorandum of Understanding to expand professional development, increase information sharing and promote Cambodian culture on Oct.31. Photo: US Embassy in Phnom Penh
- By Teng Yalirozy
- November 2, 2023 2:05 PM
PHNOM PENH – The Culture Ministry and the US Smithsonian Institution have outlined an agreement to boost information exchange, advance professional growth and expand Cambodian culture.
The memorandum of understanding aims to enhance museum staff capacity, provide management advice, facilitate exhibition loans and exchanges, and collaborate on research.
It also works on illicit trade in Cambodian antiquities and artifacts and strengthens US-Cambodian cooperation on cultural heritage protection.
“The MOU promises the conversation and collaboration will continue, that we will learn from each other through an open exchange that research and knowledge sharing will expand,” said Chase Robinson, director of the Smithsonian National Museum of Asian Art.
With 21 museums and the National Zoo, the Smithsonian Institution is the greatest museum, education, and research complex with the mission to preserve cultural history, find new knowledge, and share resources with people worldwide.
Culture Minister Phoeurng Sackona said Cambodia is ready to work with the institutions to build up the reputation of the national culture.
“We are thrilled to partner with the Smithsonian Institution to work together for conservation, training of human resources, and storytelling to bring our cultural heritage to the world.”
The MOU demonstrates strong cultural cooperation, focusing on preserving Cambodia's heritage and reducing archaeological pillaging, with over 100 priceless antiquities returned, the US Embassy said.
“Both our countries recognize the value of culture in bringing people together and instilling pride in identity and heritage,” said US Ambassador W. Patrick Murphy.
“This agreement demonstrates an enduring US commitment to preserving the Kingdom of Cambodia’s culture.”
In August, Cambodia and the US extended their pact on cultural cooperation for five years with the US announcing an additional $450,000 to conserve Phnom Bakheng temple.
Since 2001, the US has provided almost $6 million to preserve Cambodia’s culture, including grants to restore the Preah Vihear temple, support the Toul Sleng Genocide Museum, create digital inventories of objects at provincial museums, and educate the public on cultural heritage protection.
