The Egyptian government has initiated a three-day national conference on national identity, titled "National Identity: Rooted and Renewed," under the auspices of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. The event, taking place from September 21 to 23, is being held at the Bibliotheca Alexandrina. The conference aims to explore and discuss various aspects of national identity, its challenges, and its significance in shaping Egypt's future. The opening session was attended by high-ranking officials, including Dr. Hussein Issa, Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs.
Dr. Hussein Issa emphasized that the conference represents a significant step in addressing national identity, highlighting the importance of this issue in achieving social cohesion and stability. He noted that the conference's theme reflects the government's aspirations for the future amidst global complexities. The report by the Bibliotheca Alexandrina on national identity discusses the social pressures and challenges facing the nation and the role of state institutions in supporting and developing national identity.
The conference features scientific sessions, discussion circles, and roundtable meetings that delve into issues related to national identity. These include the reality of Egyptian identity, its evolution, and the risks and challenges it faces, as well as the impact of digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and social media. The event brings together a diverse group of participants, including ministers, officials, experts, thinkers, writers, media professionals, academics, and around 450 young people from various governorates.
Dr. Hussein Issa also highlighted the government's commitment to converting the conference's recommendations into actionable programs that will help protect young people and enhance awareness among different segments of society. He praised the choice of Alexandria as the conference venue, citing its unique cultural character, historical significance, and global appeal, which have made it a city of convergence and openness to cultures throughout its history.
The conference is expected to conclude with the announcement of the "Alexandria Document on National Identity," which aims to support efforts to consolidate national identity and promote awareness, especially among young people. This document is considered one of the most important outcomes of the conference. The event seeks to foster a diverse and societal dialogue on national identity.
Key stakeholders participating in the conference include Dr. Abdel Aziz Kansoua, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research and Acting Minister of Culture; Dr. Khaled Foda, Assistant to the President for Local Development and President of the Conference; and Dr. Ahmed Zayed, Director of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina. The conference underscores the critical role of youth in building Egypt's future.
The Egyptian government views the youth as the cornerstone of the nation's future, and this conference is part of its efforts to engage young people in discussions about their identity and their role in shaping the country's future. The government aims to create a comprehensive framework for addressing national identity, based on the recommendations of the conference and the report by the Bibliotheca Alexandrina.
Key points
- The conference aims to explore and discuss various aspects of national identity.
- The event brings together a diverse group of participants, including ministers, officials, experts, and young people.
- The conference seeks to foster a diverse and societal dialogue on national identity.
