Italian
A Strategic Agreement for Training, Research, and Skills Development in Cultural Heritage Restoration
Cultural collaboration between the Republic of Italy and the Republic of Kazakhstan has taken a new and strategic step forward. In Astana, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the Italian Ministry of Culture, through the Central Institute for Restoration (ICR), and the National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The agreement was signed by the Director of the ICR, Luigi Oliva, and Ibraeva Aqmaral Ghosmankizi, representative of the National Museum’s Director, Berik Abdygaliuly, in the presence of the Kazakh Minister of Culture and Information, Aida Balaeva, and the Italian Ambassador to Kazakhstan, H.E. Antonello De Riu.
The Memorandum aims to promote projects of mutual interest and high scientific, cultural, and educational value through initiatives such as expert exchanges, advanced training programs, internships, seminars, conferences, symposia, and joint publications. At the heart of the agreement is the shared intention to foster the exchange of knowledge and skills in the field of restoration and conservation of artistic heritage—an area in which Italy is recognized as a global leader.
“Culture is the bridge that unites our peoples,” declared Minister Aida Balaeva. “We wish to actively contribute to developing a pool of professionals who will work on restoring artistic and historical-cultural treasures made of metal, stone, fabric, wood, and other materials.” Her words underscore Kazakhstan’s commitment to building a solid and qualified system for protecting its cultural heritage.
As part of the mission, advanced training seminars on the restoration of artworks and cultural objects were held, involving professionals from across the country. The sessions, led by a multidisciplinary team from the ICR composed of conservation-restorers and a biologist, marked the first concrete example of scientific collaboration and skills transfer. Kazakh technical staff had the opportunity to learn the most up-to-date conservation methods, while also gaining insight into the value of international cooperation for the development of the sector.
“We are ready to share the most advanced restoration techniques and actively participate in the training of Kazakh professionals,” said ICR Director Luigi Oliva. “The project will unfold through two main activities carried out in multiple phases: the implementation of diagnostic and restoration labs for various materials, and ICR’s support in developing in-house skills within the Museum that can form the foundation of a future Kazakh training system in restoration.” His statement outlines a structured path aimed not only at exchanging experience but at fostering the autonomous and lasting growth of Kazakhstan’s museum system.
