Doha: Qatar National Library (QNL) and the Bibliotheque nationale de France (BnF) have signed a new memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at fostering collaboration in digitization, preservation, and scholarly research, with a particular focus on Islamic heritage and the history of the Gulf region.
According to Qatar News Agency, the signing ceremony was attended by HE Minister of State and President of Qatar National Library Dr. Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al Kawari and HE Minister of Culture of France Rachida Dati. This MoU builds on the long-standing cultural ties between Qatar and France, which have gained momentum in recent years.
The agreement was signed by Executive Director of QNL Tan Huism and Director General of the BnF Philippe Lonne, reaffirming both institutions’ commitment to knowledge exchange and mutual cultural understanding. It marks the continuation of a fruitful partnership between QNL and several French cultural entities.
The MoU outlines multiple areas of cooperation, focusing on heritage preservation and enhancing accessibility. Key initiatives include the analysis of pigments and dyes used in ancient Qur’anic manuscripts held by both libraries, capacity building and expertise exchange in collection management, advanced technologies, and digital content development.
Additionally, the partnership will involve the digitization of rare Islamic scientific manuscripts from the BnF, which will enrich Qatar Digital Library for the benefit of local and international researchers.
HE Al Kawari emphasized the importance of France as a partner in supporting Qatar National Library’s cultural and academic initiatives. He noted that the MoU is the culmination of years of meaningful collaboration, reflecting the deep-rooted historical and cultural ties between Qatar and France. Past partnerships have included joint exhibitions, lectures, and seminars with the French Embassy, as well as an MoU with the French Diplomatic Archives.
Tan Huism expressed pride in the enduring relationship with France’s leading cultural institutions and the honor of partnering with one of the world’s oldest and most respected national libraries. The collaboration reflects a steadfast commitment to global partnerships that enrich digital content and open new horizons for academic exploration. By digitizing rare Islamic scientific manuscripts and sharing preservation expertise, QNL and BnF are working jointly to realize a shared vision of libraries as beacons of creativity and platforms for intercultural dialogue.