M&G: By Brent Meersman. South Africa and France are set to share cutting-edge artwork in a bilateral exchange spanning two years.

More than any other colonial power France has been a big supporter of culture in Africa.

Now, for the first time, France will engage with a sub-Saharan country in a bilateral cultural season.

After signing an agreement with the French government “to improve mutual understanding and contribute to the diversification of France’s image”, South Africa follows in the footsteps of other key international partners such as China, Japan, India, Turkey, Russia and Brazil.

France will “emphasise the modernity and values that the two countries share”, states the press release.

Laurent Clavel, the French commissioner general for the bilateral seasons, said: “The French season will offer South Africans a glimpse of the ­cultural scene in modern-day France, which is contemporary and dynamic and embraces the diversity of our society.”
More than 70 different projects, performances and initiatives will feature. The array of events encompasses innovation, science and technology, higher education, business, tourism, sport and language.

In a reciprocal arrangement, South African work will travel to France.Read more