26/01/2026
Visit to Iraq and Kuwait: 4–11 January 2026
A delegation from the Shanghai Art Collections Museum, led by Mr. Hu Muqing, successfully completed an official working visit to Iraq and Kuwait from January 4th to 11th, 2026. The visit aimed to strengthen cultural ties and foster international cooperation in art and cultural heritage.
Highlights from Iraq
In Iraq, the delegation signed a memorandum of understanding with the Iraq International Art Biennial, laying the foundation for future collaboration. The visit included meetings with key cultural and governmental entities, including:
• Iraq National Museum
• National Library and Archives
• Iraqi Manuscript House
• Iraqi Artists Association
• Children’s Culture House
Discussions focused on deepening cultural cooperation between the People's Republic of China and Iraq, with both parties committing to a series of collaborative cultural events in the near future. The visit was widely covered by Iraqi national television and other media outlets, showcasing the significance of the partnership.
Highlights from Kuwait
The delegation’s visit to Kuwait was organized under the thoughtful guidance of Princess Dr. Alanoud AlSabah, Deputy Secretary General for the Islamic Antiquities Sector of the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters, and a member of the Kuwaiti royal family.
Key highlights included:
• A visit to the House of Islamic Antiquities (Dar al-Athar al-Islamiyyah), founded by the Sabah royal family in 1983 and directed by Her Highness Sheikha Hussa Sabah al-Salem al-Sabah, daughter of the 12th Emir of Kuwait.
• An exclusive invitation by Princess Hussa to her residence for an in-depth discussion. Topics included museum operations, international exhibition collaboration, and the art collection system, fostering a deeper understanding of shared cultural goals.
• Visits to the National Library of Kuwait and the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters.
The delegation was warmly received by Dr. Mohammad Aljassar, Secretary General of the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters of Kuwait. Dr. Aljassar provided an insightful overview of Kuwait's cultural and artistic development, expressing keen interest in collaborating with the Shanghai Art Collections Museum on international art exhibitions and the preservation of cultural heritage.
This vibrant and fruitful trip marked a significant milestone as the museum’s first official visit of the year, paving the way for deeper partnerships in the Middle East. The visit received extensive media coverage in both Iraq and Kuwait, highlighting the growing cultural connections between China and the region.
We look forward to building on the momentum of this successful journey and advancing cultural exchange between our nations.