Egypt and Australia have signed official documents to return 17 rare Pharaonic artifacts to Egypt, spanning multiple periods of ancient Egyptian civilization. The handover coincides with the official opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) and celebrates 75 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations.
The agreement was finalized during a high-level meeting in Canberra, where Tony Burke, Australia’s Minister for Home Affairs, Immigration, Arts, and Cyber Security and Leader of the Government in the House of Representatives, received Ambassador Nabil Habashi, Egypt’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs for Expatriates and Migration, accompanied by Ambassador Hany Nagi, Egypt’s ambassador to Australia.
Cultural Cooperation and Combating Artifact Trafficking
Ambassador Habashi emphasized that the repatriation reflects Australia’s commitment to strengthening cultural cooperation with Egypt, particularly in combating illicit trafficking of antiquities and preserving shared cultural heritage.
“This milestone coincides with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Egypt and Australia, underscoring the mutual trust and respect that bind our countries, especially in the preservation of human heritage,” he said.
Australian Court Orders Artifact Repatriation
The repatriation follows extensive legal efforts by the Egyptian Embassy in Canberra and the Consulate-General in Sydney, which began in 2019. The case culminated in a Supreme Court ruling on September 3, 2025, mandating that the 17 artifacts, previously held by a private company, be returned to their country of origin. Ambassador Habashi highlighted that this ruling exemplifies Australia’s dedication to protecting global heritage and combating illegal antiquities trade.
Tourism and Economic Ties
The ambassador also noted an 11% increase in Australian tourism to Egypt during the first half of 2025, with expectations of further growth following Australia’s updated travel guidance in September 2024 and the opening of GEM.
Bilateral Cooperation on Cybersecurity and AI
During the meeting, discussions extended to artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, addressing cross-border risks and exploring joint mechanisms to combat organized crime and terrorism. Both sides emphasized the importance of knowledge exchange, joint programs, and strategic collaboration in digital security.
Egyptian Workforce Integration in Australia
The dialogue further focused on seasonal and skilled labor programs, aiming to integrate qualified Egyptian workers into the Australian labor market, leveraging their expertise and adaptability. Both sides agreed to continue coordination on regulatory and technical frameworks to advance this initiative, enhancing economic and labor ties.
Recognition of the Egyptian Community in Australia
Minister Burke praised the Egyptian diaspora in Australia for its strong adherence to the law and successful integration into Australian society, noting their increasing representation in leadership and professional roles as a key driver of mutual trust and bilateral cooperation.
