RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Culture has announced the launch of the Saudi-Chinese Cultural Relations Research Grant.

The new initiative is designed to support academic research that strengthens mutual understanding and encourages scholarly collaboration between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the People’s Republic of China.

The grant invites researchers to submit proposals that explore the historical, artistic, linguistic and cultural connections between the two countries, especially as political and economic ties between them continue to expand.

The initiative reflects the ministry’s broader efforts to foster knowledge sharing and intercultural dialogue through academic research.

Applicants are encouraged to address themes including history and cultural heritage, performing and visual arts, literature and translation, cultural economy and creative industries, and the role of digital platforms in contemporary cultural exchange.

Selected research will be published in peer-reviewed academic journals and will contribute to the enrichment of the field of Saudi-Chinese cultural studies.

Eligible applicants must hold a master’s or doctoral degree, or demonstrate a record of scholarly publications. Proposals must be original and submitted through the official grant portal.

The grant cycle will include proposal evaluation, peer-reviewed feedback, and final publication, with the submission deadline on July 15, 2025.

Results will be announced in August 2025, and each grant will cover a one-year research period.

RIYADH: The Kingdom’s Film Commission is participating in the first European edition of the SXSW Festival, which is being held in London from June 2-7, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The event is a global platform that brings together professionals and experts from various creative sectors through events such as panel discussions, musical and comedy performances, film and TV screenings, exhibitions, competitions, and networking opportunities.

As part of its participation the commission will screen a selection of short Saudi films under the Saudi Film Nights initiative, aiming to showcase the Kingdom’s storytelling and promote national talent to international audiences.

It is also organizing a panel called “Empowering the Film Industry in Saudi Arabia: From Vision to Reality,” which will explore cinema’s role in shaping national identity, preserving cultural heritage, and supporting local content as a form of soft power.

The commission will highlight the Kingdom’s cinematic achievements through an exhibition at the country’s pavilion featuring films that have sold more than 250,000 tickets, participated in top international festivals, or won global awards — underscoring the growth and international rise of the Saudi film industry.

The commission forms a part of the Saudi pavilion alongside other creative sector entities, including the Music Commission, Culinary Arts Commission, and Fashion Commission, presenting a broad view of the Kingdom’s cultural diversity.

This participation reaffirms the Film Commission’s commitment to expanding Saudi Arabia’s global presence, empowering creative talent, and positioning the Kingdom as a regional leader in cinema.