The Sharjah Museums Authority, SMA, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Fondazione Museo delle Antichita (Museum of Antiquities Foundation) of Turin in Italy, to collaborate in areas of research, training and exhibitions.

The MoU was signed by Manal Ataya, Director-General of SMA, and Dr. Christian Greco, Director of Museo Egizio (Egyptian Museum in Italy), on behalf of Fondazione Museo delle Antichita, at the Sharjah Archeological Museum.

"We are delighted to partner with the Antiquities Foundation in Turin in future projects, beginning with a joint exhibition between our respective archaeological museums to open next year" said Ataya.

She added that the move comes as part of SMA's ongoing efforts to promote cultural, scientific and educational exchange with its counterparts across the globe.

Dr. Greco said, "I’m honoured to be here in Sharjah to sign this important agreement with the Museums Authority."

He added that Museo Egizio considers the Sharjah Museums Authority a great partner to promote cultural growth of their respective communities, and to encourage international collaborations in the field of archaeology and museum studies.

"We wish to generate knowledge by joint research projects, exhibitions and educational programmes on the Egyptian collection we are hosting in Turin, Italy, since 1824. We hope that our collaboration will strengthen the idea that museums are places open to everybody and can be an important resource for the society," he concluded.

Founded in 1824 by King Carlo Felice, Museo Egizio has one of the world’s largest collections of Egyptian antiquities, with more than 30,000 artefacts.