Paris: Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, President of the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (BACA), met in Paris with Rachida Dati, France's Minister of Culture, to discuss strengthening the cultural ties between Bahrain and France. According to Bahrain News Agency, Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed commended the level of cooperation between the two countries in cultural domains and highlighted the contributions of French cultural institutions in enhancing bilateral relations and supporting Bahrain's cultural presence internationally. He emphasised that the achievements of the strategic cultural partnership with France are guided by the directives of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and supported by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. The discussions also highlighted the joint agreement signed during HM the King's visit to France in 2019, which resulted in initiatives such as the Louvre Museum in Paris hosting the exh ibition "From Dilmun to Tylos: An Archaeological Journey in the Kingdom of Bahrain" since 2022. The exhibition features over 70 artefacts loaned for five years. They also discussed the contributions of the French archaeological mission to Bahrain in advancing research and showcasing the Kingdom's historical and cultural significance. Dati expressed her appreciation for the strong cultural ties between Bahrain and France and highlighted Bahrain's role as a cultural hub in the region. She emphasised France's commitment to enhancing collaboration in various fields to promote shared interests and common values.