Saudi Arabia Invests in Pompidou Center Renovation
Saudi Arabia has committed to a significant investment of 50 million euros for the renovation of the Pompidou Centre in Paris. This announcement was made during President Emmanuel Macron's recent visit to Saudi Arabia, where he was accompanied by Culture Minister Rachida Dati. The funding is part of a broader cultural cooperation agreement between the two nations, as confirmed by the French Ministry of Culture.
The Pompidou Centre, renowned for its modern art collection and unique architectural design, is set to close in the summer of 2025 for extensive renovations, including asbestos removal. The total cost of the renovation is estimated at 262 million euros, with overall expenses projected to reach approximately 358 million euros, fully financed by the French state budget. According to the Court of Auditors, there is a shortfall of 169 million euros needed to commence the renovation work.
Future Plans for the Pompidou Centre
In addition to the immediate renovation, the Pompidou Centre has ambitious plans for the future, with a projected investment of 180 million euros for new museum projects post-2030. This funding will be sourced from the Centre's own resources, supplemented by patronage and potential partnerships with other countries, as outlined by Laurent Le Bon, the president of the Pompidou Centre.
The agreements signed with Saudi Arabia encompass nine areas of cultural cooperation, including preventive archaeology, heritage preservation, museums, cinema, libraries, and training for Saudi personnel. This partnership aims to enhance Saudi Arabia's cultural landscape, particularly as the kingdom prepares to host the 2030 World Expo.
Extending Cultural Ties
This latest agreement builds upon a previous cultural cooperation pact signed in 2018, which focused on the Al-Ula archaeological site. The Pompidou Centre's expertise will play a crucial role in developing a modern art museum in that region. The newly signed agreements signify a deepening of cultural ties between France and Saudi Arabia, extending cooperation across the entire Saudi territory and enhancing the kingdom's cultural offerings.
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Saudi Arabia investment
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asbestos removal Pompidou
Emmanuel Macron Saudi visit
Centre Pompidou future plans
Al-Ula archaeological site
2025 Pompidou closure
2030 World Expo Saudi Arabia
