Monday, 01 June 2026
Egypt, China mark 70 years of ties with ancient‑cities civilization forum in Cairo
The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization on Monday hosted a Chinese‑Egyptian cultural forum titled “Dialogue Between Civilizations of Ancient Cities (Cairo–Hangzhou)” as the two countries marked the 70th anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations.
The event, held under the theme “From the Origins of Civilizations to Future Imaginations,” was organized in cooperation with China’s Department of Arts and International Communication under the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China, along with the Institute of Cultural Development and Communication at the Communication University of China.
Officials, diplomats, researchers and experts from both countries took part in the forum, which highlighted the museum’s role as an international platform for cultural dialogue and exchange.
In his opening remarks, Tarek Abbas, chief executive of the museum authority, said hosting the forum underscored the museum’s growing role in promoting dialogue between civilizations. He described Egyptian and Chinese civilizations as enduring models of human creativity and historical interconnectedness, adding that expanding bilateral cooperation in heritage, archaeology and museums would help deepen cultural understanding and knowledge‑sharing.
China’s deputy ambassador to Egypt, Zhang Ya Qiang, said he was pleased to participate in the event, calling dialogue between civilizations a key pillar of understanding between peoples. He noted that Egyptian‑Chinese relations were developing across multiple sectors and that cultural cooperation remained a central component of the countries’ strategic partnership.
The forum brought together academics and specialists in heritage, archaeology and museum studies from both sides. Sessions explored the origins and historical development of Egyptian and Chinese civilizations, similarities between them, and shared experiences in safeguarding cultural heritage and managing archaeological sites and museums. Discussions also addressed the role of museums in public education and the use of modern technologies to protect heritage for future generations.
On the sidelines, an accompanying exhibition showcased elements of both civilizations through photographs, archival material and presentations highlighting major heritage sites, cultural achievements and joint cultural projects.
The event concluded with a cultural‑exchange programme featuring artistic, musical and folkloric performances, as well as samples of traditional Egyptian and Chinese cuisine, reflecting the richness and diversity of both cultures and underscoring culture’s role as a bridge between the two nations.