THE British Council and Belfast City Council have signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to boost Belfast’s international cultural profile and create opportunities for artists, cultural organisations and communities to connect globally.
The agreement, signed by Ruth Mackenzie CBE, Director Arts at the British Council, and Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Tracy Kelly, sets a five-year framework to strengthen Belfast’s global cultural connections. It supports Belfast City Council’s cultural strategy, A City Imagining, placing culture and creativity at the heart of the city’s development, while promoting Belfast as a globally connected hub for artists and cultural organisations.
The partnership will also advance initiatives linked to Belfast’s UNESCO City of Music designation, including international exchanges, showcasing, and new opportunities for musicians and creative organisations.
Speaking about the partnership, Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Tracy Kelly, said: “Belfast City Council is delighted to sign this Memorandum of Understanding with the British Council. This partnership will help strengthen Belfast’s global cultural connections and support the ambitions set out in our cultural strategy, A City Imagining.
“By working together, we can create new opportunities for Belfast’s artists and cultural organisations to collaborate internationally, while showcasing the creativity, talent and distinctive story of our city.”
The agreement also supports the city’s wider international ambitions set out in the Belfast Agenda, which aims to grow the economy, strengthen communities and position Belfast as a globally connected city.
Also commenting on the new agreement, Ruth Mackenzie CBE, Director Arts at the British Council, said: “We are delighted to strengthen our partnership with Belfast City Council through this MoU. Belfast has a vibrant cultural sector and an international profile, and the British Council is committed to supporting the city’s artists, cultural organisations and institutions to connect with global partners.
“The partnership will be supported by a joint programme of activity developed by both organisations, focusing on international cultural exchange, artist mobility and new global partnerships for Belfast’s creative sector.”
The agreement comes at a time of significant cultural activity in Belfast, including programmes connected to both its City of Music designation and as a European City of Sport for 2026, alongside preparations to host Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in both 2026 and 2027.
The British Council is the UK’s international organisation for cultural relations and educational opportunities, working with people in over 200 countries and territories. For more information on current opportunities in Northern Ireland, visit nireland.britishcouncil.org or follow British Council Northern Ireland on social media.