‘The Dutch cultural sector needs foreign countries as a source of inspiration and renewal, and as a market for its products. Culture also says something about our identity and determines our image,’ Mr Timmermans said. ‘Through culture we can show who we are.’
The two ministers stressed that Dutch artists and cultural organisations have a strong international focus. ‘International cultural policy is not just about sending messages,’ Ms Bussemaker said. ‘We must also be open to innovative ideas from abroad.’
DutchCulture has been set up to promote, support and create international cultural cooperation. It is the product of a merger between SICA, Trans Artists and MEDIA Desk Nederland. DutchCulture has also taken over the international tasks of the former Netherlands Institute for Heritage. DutchCulture receives a four-yearly grant from both the Ministry of Education, Culture and Science and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as substantive funding from the European Commission.
