Egyptian Tourism and Antiquities Minister Sherif Fathy recently met with Gakuji Ito, Japan's Commissioner for Cultural Affairs, to discuss ways to strengthen Egyptian-Japanese cooperation in tourism and antiquities. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the TEJ 2026 Japan International Tourism Exhibition. Fathy emphasized the depth of Egyptian-Japanese relations, which are rooted in a rich history and shared heritage. He expressed his desire to expand cooperation in the tourism and antiquities sectors.
Fathy highlighted the importance of enhancing cooperation in the archaeological field, particularly in areas such as monument restoration and the use of modern technology. He noted that 12 Japanese archaeological expeditions are currently working in Egypt, in addition to cooperation on several archaeological projects. The minister also reviewed the ongoing cooperation with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), stressing the need for continued exchange of expertise between specialists from both countries.
The two officials discussed ways to increase Japanese tourism to Egypt. Fathy met with tour organizers and officials from Japanese tourism companies during his visit to Japan, focusing on boosting inbound tourism from the Japanese market. He invited Ito to visit Egypt and the Grand Egyptian Museum, which is set to open soon. The minister's visit aimed to promote Egyptian tourism and antiquities in Japan.
Ito expressed his pleasure at the meeting, citing the rich historical heritage of both Egypt and Japan as a foundation for strengthened cooperation. He announced that a Japanese delegation is scheduled to visit the Grand Egyptian Museum next month, as part of efforts to support joint cooperation. Ito emphasized the importance of continued work in areas such as capacity building and cultural exchange.
The meeting was attended by Egyptian Ambassador to Japan Raji Al-Atrabi, Minister's Advisor for Communication and External Relations Rana Gohar, and other officials. Fathy's visit to Japan aimed to promote Egyptian-Japanese cooperation in tourism and antiquities. The two countries have a long history of cooperation in these fields.
The Egyptian-Japanese cooperation in the tourism sector is expected to increase with the visit of the Japanese delegation to the Grand Egyptian Museum. The museum is one of the most anticipated archaeological projects in Egypt, and its opening is expected to boost tourism. The cooperation between Egypt and Japan in the field of antiquities is also expected to continue.
The meeting between Fathy and Ito reflects the ongoing efforts to strengthen Egyptian-Japanese relations in various fields. The two countries have a long history of cooperation, and the recent meetings aim to further enhance this cooperation. The visit of the Japanese delegation to Egypt is expected to promote cultural exchange and cooperation between the two nations.
Key points
- Egypt and Japan to increase cooperation in tourism and antiquities.
- 12 Japanese archaeological expeditions are currently working in Egypt.
- A Japanese delegation is scheduled to visit the Grand Egyptian Museum next month.
