Oxford:Bangladesh is taking steps to strengthen its cultural cooperation with the United Kingdom, as highlighted by the State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Shama Obaed Islam's recent visit to the Ashmolean Museum at the University of Oxford. The visit focused on promoting the country's creative economy and exploring opportunities for institutional partnerships.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the state minister's visit included discussions on cultural exchanges and initiatives to support Bangladeshi artists. She was accompanied by Bangladesh High Commissioner to the UK, Ambassador Muhammad Abdul Muhith, and other senior officials.
During the visit, Shama Obaed Islam toured the "Climate, Culture, Care" exhibition by Bangladeshi artist Soma Surovi Jannat. This exhibition is noted as the first solo exhibition by a Bangladesh-based artist at a UK museum. The state minister expressed appreciation for the exhibition and engaged in discussions with Dr. Mallica Kumbera Landrus, Keeper of Eastern Art and Curator at the Ashmolean Museum, about strengthening ties between the institutions of both countries.
The visit signifies a growing recognition of Bangladesh's contemporary art scene and the government's effort to use cultural diplomacy as a foreign policy tool. It also highlights the importance of cultural engagement in fostering mutual understanding and strengthening the connections between Bangladesh and the United Kingdom.