The Cyprus Academy of Sciences, Letters and Arts has announced the establishment of a Cultural Diplomacy Research Office, a new institution of strategic importance that aims to serve as the Academy's scientific and research centre for cultural diplomacy, international cultural relations and cultural policy.
Academician Marios Ioannou Elia has been appointed Scientific Director of the Office and will also chair its Steering Committee.
According to the Academy, the initiative forms part of its broader strategy to strengthen scientific research, international cooperation and the international projection of the Republic of Cyprus through culture, science and the arts.
The Office's primary mission will be to promote research, documentation and scholarly study in the field of cultural diplomacy, while developing initiatives that enhance the international cultural presence of both the Republic of Cyprus and the Academy itself.
International cooperation
The Office will develop partnerships with academies, universities, research centres, cultural organisations and international institutions.
It will also work closely with the Presidency of the Republic, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Deputy Ministry of Culture, and corresponding institutions abroad to promote cultural diplomacy and intercultural dialogue.
Its activities will include:
- Conducting scientific studies and research projects.
- Developing international networks and partnerships.
- Organising international conferences, symposia, lectures and workshops.
- Hosting exhibitions and cultural and artistic events.
- Publishing academic books and studies.
- Participating in European and international research programmes.
Through these initiatives, the Office aims to promote Cyprus' cultural heritage, contemporary intellectual and artistic creation, and scientific output, while strengthening the country's international profile through cultural diplomacy.
Strategic initiative
The Academy described the new Office as an important institutional initiative that reinforces its role as Cyprus' leading scientific and intellectual institution and as an active participant in the international academic and cultural community.
The Steering Committee comprises:
- President: Academician Marios Ioannou Elia
- Vice-President: Academician Elena Mouzala
- Secretary: Academician Kyriakos Demetriou
- Administrative Secretary: Christina Ioannou
Speaking to Politis, Marios Ioannou Elia said cultural diplomacy is a field of knowledge, creativity and international engagement.
"Through the establishment of the Office, we seek to connect research with diplomacy, artistic creation and international networks, creating new opportunities for cooperation and a meaningful Cypriot presence in the world."
