Cooperation between the National Archives of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the King Abdulaziz Research and Archives Foundation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the field of archival affairs is entering a new stage of substantive development.

As part of the working visit, Director of the National Archives of the Republic of Kazakhstan Sagila Nurlanova and Head of the Department for Working with Owners of Personal Archival Collections Gauhar Khairullina signed an Executive Programme aimed at implementing the Memorandum of Cooperation concluded on 22 May 2025.

The document defines specific areas of cooperation between the two countries in the archival sphere. In particular, it provides for the exchange of expertise in archival affairs, joint research projects, the exchange of scholarly publications, the organisation of exhibitions and seminars, as well as the study of documentary heritage related to the history of Kazakhstan and Saudi Arabia.

During the visit, the delegation of the National Archives familiarised itself with the activities of several leading research and cultural institutions in Riyadh. In particular, visits were made to the King Abdulaziz Public Library, the King Fahad National Library, and the King Faisal Center for Research and Islamic Studies.

During the meetings, the Kazakh side gained insights into the institutions’ work in the preservation of documentary and library collections, the organisation of research activities, and the study and promotion of historical and cultural heritage.

The delegation also visited the National Museum of Saudi Arabia, where it viewed exhibitions dedicated to the country’s history and cultural heritage. Of particular interest were the digitisation, restoration and preservation systems of the King Abdulaziz Research and Archives Foundation, as well as an exhibition organised by the Foundation.

The meetings and exchange of expertise held during the working visit contributed to strengthening professional ties between archival, research and cultural institutions of the two countries, while also providing an opportunity to explore modern approaches to the study and preservation of historical documents.

The signing of the Executive Programme marks a new stage in cooperation between Kazakhstan and Saudi Arabia in the preservation and study of historical and cultural heritage and provides a solid foundation for the implementation of joint projects.