Italian Ambassador to Bangladesh Antonio Alessandro met with Cultural Affairs Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury at his secretariat office in the capital. Photo: PID

DHAKA, April 16 (BSS) – Cultural Affairs Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury today stressed on further strengthening cultural ties between Bangladesh and Italy for mutual interest. 

In this connection, he said the historic cultural agreement signed between the two countries on October 13, 1991, had laid a strong foundation for long-standing cultural partnership between the two nations.

The minister made this observation when the Italian Ambassador to Bangladesh Antonio Alessandro called on him at his secretariat office in the capital, an official handout said.

During the meeting, they discussed issues relating to cultural exchance programme and ways to further strengthen bilateral cooperation in the preservation of archaeological heritage. 

Noting that culture is one of the most powerful means of building bridges among people across nations, the minister stressed on further strengthening cultural ties and exchange of cultural programmes.

In the meeting, the minister welcomed Italy’s interest in providing technical support in the conservation and restoration of antiquities, as well as in modern museum management. 

He also appreciated Italy’s willingness to support language training and organize international cultural events in Dhaka.

He expressed the hope that such exchange programmes would further enrich the cultural landscape of both countries. 

Highlighting Bangladesh’s active participation in various international events such as the Venice Biennale (2022, 2024), the Naples Cultural Heritage Conference, and Expo Milan, he lauded the long history of cooperation with Italy.

He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to implementing the Cultural Exchange Programme (CEP) signed in Rome on July 25, 2023.

Ambassador Antonio Alessandro described Bangladesh as an important partner, noting that the large Bangladeshi community living in Italy plays a significant role in promoting cultural exchange between the two nations. 

He said that regardless of political contexts, culture remains a unifying force.

The ambassador expressed Italy’s keen interest in further advancing cultural cooperation with Bangladesh. 

He stressed the importance of organizing international cultural events in Dhaka, including joint exhibitions from both countries. He also expressed optimism about strengthening collaboration through UNESCO and other heritage-related initiatives.

The meeting also held a detailed discussions on increasing scholarships and fellowship opportunities for students of both countries to promote education and research. Both the sides agreed to further consolidate the existing bilateral relations. 

Cultural Affairs Secretary Kaniz Mowla, senior officials of the ministry, and members of the Italian Embassy in Dhaka were present at the meeting.