Riyadh, March 28, 2024, The Saudi Film Commission recently solidified a significant partnership by signing a Framework Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the esteemed Bona Film Group from the People's Republic of China. This landmark agreement was formalized during the official visit of His Highness Prince Bader bin Abdullah bin Farhan Al Saud, Minister of Culture and Chairman of the Film Commission, to China. The primary goal of this collaboration is to explore a range of collaborative opportunities within the realms of film distribution, exhibition, and talent development.
The signing ceremony, attended by His Highness Prince Bader bin Abdullah bin Farhan Al Saud alongside Abdullah Al Eyaf, the CEO of the Film Commission, and Qi Zhi, the CFO of Bona Film Group, marked the beginning of a promising partnership. Also present were Bona Film Group executive director Jiang Defu and esteemed Chinese actress and singer Li Bingbing.
The MoU delineates several key areas of cooperation, including potential investments in the film industry, the exploration of establishing a joint film fund dedicated to cinematic endeavors, and collaboration on the distribution of Saudi films within China. Additionally, the agreement aims to create opportunities for Saudi filmmakers by fostering talent development through participation in Bona Film Group productions and Chinese film education institutions.
The Film Commission's strategic objectives align closely with this partnership, focusing on the development of the local film industry, enhancing production capabilities, and promoting Saudi films on the global stage. By encouraging investment, facilitating content creation, nurturing talent, and championing regulatory frameworks, the Commission aims to elevate Saudi Arabia's presence in the international film arena.
The signing of this historic agreement underscores the Film Commission's commitment to forging impactful global partnerships and leveraging cultural exchanges as integral components of Saudi Vision 2030 objectives.
Established in 1999, Bona Film Group has emerged as a prominent force within the Chinese film industry, renowned for its successful film distribution and production endeavors. With a portfolio boasting blockbuster successes and a steadfast dedication to international cultural exchange, Bona Film Group epitomizes excellence and innovation within the global cinematic landscape.
The collaboration between Saudi Arabia and China in the cultural sphere is not new, with notable instances such as China being the guest of honor at the Janadriyah Cultural Festival in 2013 and the organization of the “Roads of Arabia: Archaeological Treasures of Saudi Arabia Exhibit” at the Beijing National Museum. Additionally, the attendance of King Salman bin Abdulaziz at the opening ceremony of the King Abdulaziz Public Library branch at Peking University, marking the first branch of its kind in a non-Arab country, further solidified cultural ties. These collaborations culminated in the announcement of the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Award for Cultural Cooperation between Saudi Arabia and China during His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s visit to China in 2019, showcasing the enduring commitment to fostering cultural dialogue and collaboration between the two nations.
