Archaeology fieldwork cooperation agreement signed between Qatar and Sudan

Under the patronage of Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa Bint Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani, Chairperson of Qatar Museums Authority, an archaeology fieldwork cooperation agreement was signed today between the Qatari and Sudanese governments.

The signing ceremony and press conference were held at the Museum of Islamic Art in the presence of H.E. Sheikh Hassan Bin Mohammed Bin Ali Al Thani, Vice Chairperson of Qatar Museums Authority and head of the project’s joint committee, Mr Abdullah Al Najjar, project CEO, and Dr Mustafa Othman Ismail, Advisor to the President of the Republic of Sudan and head of the Sudanese part of the project.

Commenting on the significance of this agreement, Mr Abdullah Al Najjar said: “This agreement comes in the framework of the joint Qatari-Sudanese project which aims to develop archeological research and exploration, and protect archeological heritage in the Republic of Sudan, particularly in the River Nile and Northern states. This joint archaeology fieldwork cooperation agreement is also considered the culmination of the vigorous efforts that were exerted by both the Qatari and Sudanese governments which enjoy excellent relations in various fields, including politics, economy, and culture.”

Qatar’s cooperation with Sudan started with a visit by H.E. Sheikha Al Mayassa Bint Hamad Al Thani to the Republic of Sudan in February 2011 accompanied by H.E. Sheikh Hassan Bin Mohammed Bin Ali Al Thani and Mr Abdullah Al Najjar. During their visit, they toured a number of archeological sites including Al Naqa’a, Al Masurat, as well as the cemeteries’ sites and royal temples in Al Bajrawiyah area, and some museums in the area of Shendi and the River Nile state. The delegation also participated in two workshops in Khartoum and Doha. The joint Qatari-Sudanese project is managed by Qatar, while the Republic of Sudan helps ensuring its implementation and success.

The State of Qatar provided as well logistical support for approximately 27 foreign missions working in developing tourism and archeological exploration and restoration of the pyramids in the River Nile and Northern states.

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