<P><STRONG><U>The Mandate</U></STRONG></P>
<P>The Misnistry of Culture and Fine Arts was established in October 1997 by a Royal Decree.&nbsp; The Ministry comprises two general departments and the Royal University of Fine Arts, whcih has five faculties and a centre for cultural science research.</P>
<P>The Minister is supported by two secretaries of state and an under-secretary of state.</P>
<P><STRONG><U>Mission and Structure</U></STRONG></P>
<P>The Ministry's mission is to:</P>
<UL>
<LI>implement policies for the protection, preservation and promotion of Cambodian national heritage and cultural property.&nbsp;
<LI>control tourist sites, archaeological sites, history and urbanism
<LI>promote national culture and customs
<LI>encourage traditional creativity and cultural activities
<LI>train artists, musicians, architects, archaeologists and other culturally related experts through the Royla University of Fine Arts.</LI></UL>
<P>Through eight sub-departments, the General Department of Techniques for Culture implements the Ministry's strategies on heritage, museums, plastic arts, literature, film/video and multi-media, cultural development and arts education.</P>
<P>The General Department of Administration and Finance consists of seven departments that are concerned with administration, finance, research, personnel, materials and support, a cultural training school and the Department of International Cultural Cooperation and ASEAN Affairs.</P>