Dr. Ahmed Fouad Hanno, Egypt’s Minister of Culture, Dr. Rania Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning and Economic Development, and the Japanese Ambassador to Egypt, Fumio Iwai, witnessed the signing of the executive agreement for a Japanese grant aimed at improving the infrastructure of the Cairo Opera House. The project, valued at 180 million Japanese yen (approximately $1.17 million), aims to enhance the operational efficiency of the Opera House by upgrading equipment, services, and modernizing the Grand Theater’s viewing hall.
Minister of Culture, Dr. Ahmed Fouad Hanno, emphasized that the project plays a crucial role in preserving Egypt’s rich cultural heritage while embracing the future with innovative technologies that support artistic expression. He highlighted the Cairo Opera House as a cultural beacon, not only in Egypt but across the Arab world, symbolizing the deep cultural ties between Egypt and Japan. Hanno praised Japan’s continuous support, calling the grant a testament to the longstanding and fruitful partnership between the two nations.
Dr. Rania Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning and Economic Development, underscored the historical significance of the Egyptian-Japanese partnership, which began in 1954. She noted that Japan has played a key role in many major projects in Egypt, such as the Grand Egyptian Museum. Al-Mashat highlighted that this partnership is aligned with Egypt’s Vision 2030 and Egypt’s government program (2024–2027), reinforcing the country’s commitment to sustainable development.
Dr. Al-Mashat emphasized that the agreement would not only preserve the Cairo Opera House’s role as a cultural and artistic hub but also ensure it continues to meet the demands of modern times through advanced systems and facilities. She expressed pride in this agreement, viewing it as part of a legacy of cooperation that spans over 70 years, solidifying Japan’s ongoing role as a vital partner in Egypt’s development journey.
The Japanese Ambassador, Fumio Iwai, described the agreement as a continuation of Japan’s efforts to develop the Cairo Opera House and deepen the cultural and strategic ties between Egypt and Japan. He reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to supporting Egypt’s cultural and creative industries.
