PHNOM PENH: In a significant move to bridge Southeast Asia and North Africa, Cambodia and Morocco officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on February 4, 2026, to intensify bilateral cooperation in the cultural sector. This historic agreement coincides with the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two kingdoms, marking a new chapter of mutual heritage preservation and creative exchange.
A Roadmap for Cultural Synergy
The MoU was signed at the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts in Phnom Penh between H.E. Sum Mab, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts of Cambodia, and H.E. Mohammed Mehdi Bensaid, Morocco’s Minister of Youth, Culture, and Communication.
The agreement establishes a comprehensive framework for cooperation, focusing on several key pillars:
- Heritage Conservation: Joint efforts in the protection and promotion of both tangible and intangible cultural heritage.
- Creative Industries: Sharing expertise and experiences to boost cultural and creative industries in both nations.
- Institutional Training: Professional development and exchange programs for the management of museums, libraries, and national archives.
- Combating Illicit Trade: Collaborative strategies to prevent the illegal trafficking of cultural property.
Celebrating Three Decades of Friendship
H.E. Sum Mab emphasized that the 30th anniversary serves as a perfect backdrop for this partnership, describing culture as a “long-lasting bridge” that fosters dialogue between civilizations. The ministers discussed a vibrant schedule of commemorative activities for 2026, including:
- Cultural Weeks in both Rabat and Phnom Penh.
- Joint art exhibitions and museum exposure visits.
- Exchange programs for archaeologists and archival professionals.
Strengthening Multi-Sectoral Ties
This cultural agreement is part of a broader roadmap for multi-sectoral cooperation agreed upon by the two nations in late 2025. Beyond culture, Cambodia and Morocco are actively exploring deeper ties in:
- Tourism: Specifically religious and spiritual tourism, leveraging Morocco’s expertise in managing historical Islamic sites and Cambodia’s world-renowned Buddhist temples.
- Education: Morocco has recently increased its annual scholarship quota for Cambodian students from 20 to 30, focusing on diplomacy and international relations.
- Multilateral Support: Morocco has reaffirmed its support for Cambodia’s bid to become an observer of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and its hosting of the 20th Francophonie Summit in 2026.
FAQ: Cambodia-Morocco Cultural Cooperation
Since establishing ties in 1996, the two nations have shared a history of mutual respect. The 30th anniversary in 2026 serves as a catalyst to move from political friendship to active, practical cooperation in sectors like culture and economy.
Yes. Both ministries have committed to organizing “Cultural Weeks” and exhibitions in the capitals (Phnom Penh and Rabat) throughout 2026 to showcase the music, art, and history of each country.
Moroccan and Cambodian artists, designers, and filmmakers will have new opportunities for exchange programs, allowing them to share techniques in traditional crafts and modern digital arts, potentially opening new markets for their work.