On the fringe of his participation in the Japan International Tourism Expo (TEJ 2026), Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathy met with Commissioner for Cultural Affairs in the Japanese Government, Gakuji Ito. The two sides discussed aspects of Egyptian‑Japanese cooperation in tourism and antiquities and fostering more cultural exchange between the two countries.
During the meeting, Minister Fathy said that Egypt and Japan have deeply rooted relations grounded in ancient history and marked by distinguished cooperation in several areas. He expressed his aspiration to broaden the horizons of cooperation in tourism and antiquities, in line with the directives of political leadership, and to leverage the expertise and capabilities possessed by both sides.
Minister Fathy also said it is important to enhance archaeological cooperation and exchange expertise, especially in restoration and the use of modern technology. He added that 12 Japanese archaeological missions are currently working in Egypt, alongside collaboration in several heritage projects.
The minister reviewed the sustained cooperation with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). He also added that it is vital to uphold ongoing visit and expertise exchanges between Egyptian and Japanese tourism specialists.
Regarding tourism cooperation, Fathy highlighted the meetings he held during his visit to Japan with tour operators and Japanese travel companies to discuss promoting Japanese inbound tourism to Egypt. Concluding the meeting, he extended an invitation to Japan's cultural commissioner to visit Egypt and the Grand Egyptian Museum.
Meanwhile, Mr. Gakuji Ito expressed his pleasure at the meeting, saying that the rich history of Egypt and Japan represents a vital pillar for fostering cooperation between the two countries.
The Japanese cultural commissioner said that a Japanese mission is scheduled to visit the Grand Egyptian Museum next month as part of strengthening cooperation, stressing the need to sustain skill development and cultural exchange, including promoting Japanese culture in Egypt and Egyptian culture in Japan to enhance communication between the peoples of Egypt and Japan.
The meeting was attended by Ambassador Ragy El‑Atterby, Egypt’s Ambassador to Japan; Rana Gouhar, Advisor to the Minister for Communication and External Relations and Supervisor‑General of the Department of International Relations and Agreements; Dr. Ahmed Nabil, Assistant to the Minister for Aviation and Follow‑up; and Ms. Inas Taha, First Secretary at the Egyptian Embassy in Japan.
🖋️ Source: Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities Online Portal
