Olympic ambitions

Japan is looking to Scotland for inspiration to deliver a world-class cultural programme as part of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

Just as Scotland developed a comprehensive a culture programme to attract visitors to Scotland during the London 2012 Olympics, Japanese city leaders (prefectures) are looking to do the same for Tokyo 2020.

Culture Secretary Fiona Hyslop will outline how Scotland uses culture to promote itself and in diplomacy, during a trade and culture mission this week in Japan.

Japanese prefectures, arts bodies and government officials will visit Scotland in August through the Momentum International Delegate Programme to meet cultural groups and leading Scottish arts professionals during Edinburgh’s peak festivals season.

Ms Hyslop said:

“Engagement with Japan is important to Scotland. Through our vibrant cultural sector we already enjoy established links and we are committed to build on these to strengthen the ties between our two countries.

“During my week-long visit to Japan, I look forward to discussing with city leaders how Scotland’s arts community can help Japan shape its cultural programme for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

“This summer, the Momentum delegate programme will provide a platform for key cultural figures from Japan to visit Edinburgh to hear how Scotland delivers world class cultural programmes during the peak Festival season.”

Lorna Duguid, Multi-artform Manager, Creative Scotland said,

“The Momentum International Delegate Programme provides a unique opportunity to connect our ambitious artists with like-minded producers, presenters and makers from around the world.

“The individually tailored programme is proven to facilitate long term engagement and we are now enjoying an ever growing number of fruitful collaborations. Japan is one of our Momentum focus countries and we look forward to welcoming our colleagues in the Japanese cultural sector to Edinburgh in August and further developing these relationships.”

Background

The Momentum International Delegate Programme is a partnership managed and delivered by Festivals Edinburgh, British Council Scotland and Creative Scotland with additional support from City of Edinburgh Council, Event Scotland and the Scottish Government.