Staff Reporter
Panaji
In an initiative to elevate Goan art, culture and heritage on the global stage, the Art and Culture Department has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Fundacao Oriente, a Lisbon-based cultural organisation.
The agreement was formalised during a high-level meeting in Lisbon held recently in the presence of Art and Culture Minister Govind Gaude, Art and Culture Secretary Suneel Anchipaka and representatives from Fundacao Oriente.
Fundacao Oriente, a renowned Portuguese institution dedicated to promoting cultural, educational, and scientific exchanges between Portugal and
Asian countries, will collaborate with Goa to showcase its rich heritage, including Goan cuisine, music, handicrafts, and artistic traditions.
“Goa’s culture is a treasure trove of history, art, music and tradition, and we are proud to take it to a global audience. Our partnership with Fundacao Oriente is a significant step in ensuring that Goa’s artistic legacy is not only preserved but celebrated internationally. Through this collaboration, we aim to strengthen Goa’s cultural footprint across
the Asia-Pacific region,” Gaude said.
“This year not only marks 50 years since the restoration of diplomatic ties between India and Portugal, but also the 30th anniversary of Fundacao Oriente’s establishment in Goa. We are delighted to formalise this partnership in Lisbon, as it will play a key role in enhancing awareness and appreciation of Goa’s unique cultural heritage across the Asia-Pacific region,” Anchipaka said.
As part of this partnership, Fundacao Oriente
will support Goa’s cultural promotion through exhibitions, performances, and literary events, facilitate scholarships, academic exchanges, and research grants to foster stronger academic collaborations, encourage joint research initiatives and technological partnerships to strengthen cultural and educational
ties.
Other dignitaries included Puneet Roy Kundal, Ambassador of India to Portugal, Asha Anthony, Councillor, Embassy of India in Lisbon, Premendra Shet, Mayem MLA, Antonio Vaz, Cortalim MLA,
Sagun Velip, Director, Art and Culture Department, Carlos Monjardino, Chairman, Board of Directors, Fundacao Oriente and Joao Amorim, Member, Board of Directors, Fundacao
Oriente.
