WASHINGTON (AP) -- The Smithsonian and the Victoria and Albert Museum will collaborate on permanent gallery space in London.

The institutions announced in a statement Monday that they plan to develop gallery space over this year at Victoria and Albert East that will be a part of a new cultural complex being created at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. It would be the first time the Smithsonian has committed to a long-term permanent gallery presence in another country.

Smithsonian Secretary David Skorton says with the Victoria and Albert Museum, the Smithsonian “can build bridges to other countries and continents and share our work with the world.”

The Smithsonian exhibits and programs will be supported by private-sector contributions and Foundation for FutureLondon, a new charity established for the park.