Egyptian Tourism Minister Shreef Fathy met with Yuko Mitsui, Deputy President of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), in Tokyo to discuss cooperation between the two parties in management, training, capacity building, and scientific research. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the TEJ 2026 Japan International Tourism Exhibition. Fathy and Mitsui emphasized the importance of the existing cooperation between the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities and JICA.
The two officials highlighted the significance of their collaboration on the Grand Egyptian Museum, describing it as a model of partnership between Egypt and Japan. They discussed the need to manage the museum as an economic entity, maximizing its resources and potential while enhancing its cultural and scientific roles. This approach aims to increase the museum's impact and benefits.
Fathy and Mitsui stressed the value of exchanging expertise and knowledge between Egyptian and Japanese specialists to improve the museum's operations and management. They explored ways to develop the scientific research system at the Grand Egyptian Museum, promoting the production and publication of specialized studies and research. This would solidify the museum's position as a center for scientific research and knowledge exchange.
The meeting also covered future cooperation areas, particularly in management, training, capacity building, and scientific research. These efforts aim to enhance the performance of the museum and other entities under the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities. By doing so, they seek to improve the overall tourism experience in Egypt.
Yuko Mitsui congratulated Minister Fathy and the Egyptian government on the upcoming first anniversary of the Grand Egyptian Museum's opening. She confirmed JICA's continued support for the museum through various technical assistance programs. These programs focus on developing administrative capacities and leveraging Japanese expertise in management and operation.
The meeting was attended by several officials, including Egyptian Ambassador to Japan Raji Al-Atrabi, Minister's advisor Rana Gohar, and Dr. Ahmed Nabil, Minister's assistant for aviation and follow-up. The attendees discussed ways to strengthen ties between Egypt and Japan in the tourism and antiquities sectors.
The cooperation between Egypt and JICA on the Grand Egyptian Museum serves as a prime example of successful international partnerships in the cultural and tourism sectors. By combining their expertise and resources, both parties aim to create a world-class museum that showcases Egypt's rich history and heritage.
Key points
- Egypt and JICA discuss cooperation on the Grand Egyptian Museum, focusing on management, training, and scientific research.
- The two parties emphasize the importance of exchanging expertise and knowledge to improve the museum's operations and management.
- JICA confirms its continued support for the Grand Egyptian Museum through technical assistance programs.
