Anani Tackles Combating Illicit Trafficking in Antiquities with Greece

Tourism and Antiquities Minister Khaled Al-Anani discussed on Friday with Greek Minister of Culture and Sports Lina Mendoni ways of cooperation in combating illicit trafficking in antiquities.

Addressing a press conference following the meeting, Anani said that he agreed with Mendoni on exchanging expertise between the two countries in the field of museum work in light of the coming opening of the Graeco-Roman Museum.

[caption id="attachment_111224" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Anani and Medoni Speak during Press Conference[/caption]

"Anani also reviewed Egypt's efforts in restoring many stolen and smuggled antiquities in many ways whether diplomatic or judicial," the Tourism and Antiquities Ministry said in a statement.

The minister held a number of interviews Greek TV channels and world news agencies during which he touched on the preparations about the expected opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum, a matter which the minister described as "the achieved dream."

He talked about archaeological discoveries and inaugurations which remarkably contributed to promoting Egypt's abroad, in addition to the efforts exerted to restore the strong tourism influx to the Egyptian attractions.

[caption id="attachment_111225" align="aligncenter" width="650"] Anani and Medoni Having a Look on a Book about Egyptian Antiquities[/caption]

He highlighted the linkage of beach tourism with the culture one by launching flights between the Red Sea resorts and Upper Egypt cities.

EgyptAir will operate a flight from the UK Gatwick airport to Sharm El Sheikh soon.

The minister pointed out to the "Summer in Upper Egypt" initiative which the ministry adopts to encourage tourists to visit the archaeological sites in Upper Egypt in July and August by declining their tickets' prices to the half.