TEHRAN – Iran and Uzbekistan signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on Sunday, with an aim to increase collaboration and promote their respective cinema industries.

The MOU was signed by the Director of the Cinema Organization of Iran, Mohammad Khazaei and the Director-General of the Cinematography Agency of Uzbekistan, Firdavs Abdukhalikov, in Tashkent.

The MOU seeks to strengthen bilateral relations and spur cinematic collaboration between Iran and Uzbekistan, based on mutual respect and shared interests, IRNA reported. 

Under this agreement, the two nations will facilitate exchange programs, film screenings and commercial presentations, while also providing necessary facilities to filmmakers. 

The agreement also includes initiatives such as easing participation of filmmakers in events in both countries, encouraging communication and exchange of skilled personnel for film projects, sharing of technical knowledge, and promoting the production of joint films, such as feature films, documentaries, short films, and animations, in areas of common history and culture. 

Additionally, the parties will hold joint film weeks, while strictly observing copyright laws for cinema works.

In order to ensure the successful implementation of the MOU and to address any potential future issues, a joint committee consisting of representatives from both Iran and Uzbekistan has been formed. 

The committee will work collaboratively to ensure all provisions of the memorandum are effectively implemented, and to facilitate communication and resolve any concerns that may arise in the future.

SAB/