Egyptian Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Abdulaziz Qanswa, who is also acting Minister of Culture, and Angolan Culture Minister, Felipe Silvino de Pena Zau, have signed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen cultural ties between the two countries. The agreement aims to increase Egypt's cultural presence in Africa and marks a significant milestone in the 50-year history of diplomatic relations between Cairo and Luanda.
The memorandum, which is valid for five years and can be automatically renewed, allows for direct cooperation between institutions and creatives in both countries. It also promotes cultural exchange, joint exhibitions, conferences, and seminars, as well as the transfer of art exhibitions through diplomatic channels. The agreement encourages the exchange of publications and the translation of literary works between the two countries.
Minister Qanswa emphasized that the agreement reflects the Egyptian government's vision of strengthening cultural and intellectual ties with African countries. He noted that the partnership with Angola will enable the exchange of expertise in heritage management, preservation of identity, and support for creatives and youth through new translation, publishing, and promotion opportunities.
Angolan Culture Minister, Felipe Silvino de Pena Zau, expressed his appreciation for the agreement, highlighting Egypt's role as a cultural and intellectual beacon for the African continent. He noted that the signing of the memorandum coincides with the unveiling of a statue of Angola's first president, Agostinho Neto, in Cairo, which symbolizes the depth of friendship between the two nations.
The agreement builds on a long-standing record of cultural and scientific cooperation between Egypt and Angola, dating back to a previous agreement. Minister Zau expressed his country's desire to benefit from Egypt's expertise in cinema, library science, and management of artistic and academic institutions.
The enhanced cultural cooperation between Egypt and Angola is expected to promote mutual understanding and people-to-people exchanges between the two nations. The agreement is also seen as a significant step towards strengthening Egypt's cultural presence in Africa and promoting African cultural exchange.
The signing of the memorandum is a notable development in the history of Egyptian-Angolan relations, marking a new era of cooperation and collaboration between the two countries. The agreement is expected to have a positive impact on the cultural and artistic landscape of both nations.
Key points
- Egypt and Angola have signed a memorandum of understanding to enhance cultural cooperation, including translation of literary works and joint exhibitions.
- The agreement aims to increase Egypt's cultural presence in Africa and marks a significant milestone in the 50-year history of diplomatic relations between Cairo and Luanda.
- The partnership with Angola will enable the exchange of expertise in heritage management, preservation of identity, and support for creatives and youth through new translation, publishing, and promotion opportunities.