On Saturday, the Egyptian Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Ahmed Issa, announced the formation of a distinguished scientific committee for the restoration of the Menkaure Pyramid, one of the iconic structures at the Giza Plateau.
The committee is chaired by the world-renowned archaeologist Dr. Zahi Hawass, former Minister of Antiquities, and includes a select group of renowned Egyptian and international scholars and engineers from the USA, the Czech Republic, and Germany, specializing in pyramid archaeology and structural engineering.
The committee's primary task is to evaluate a collaborative restoration proposal between the Supreme Council of Antiquities and the Waseda University expedition from Japan, aimed at conducting comprehensive architectural restoration works on the Menkaure Pyramid. This initiative marks a pivotal step in Egypt's ongoing efforts to conserve its archaeological treasures while embracing global scientific standards and expertise.
Following an exhaustive review, the committee will compile an in-depth scientific report outlining the review's outcomes, recommendations regarding the project's feasibility, and any requisite coordination with UNESCO to ensure compliance with international conservation protocols.
This report, upon completion, will be submitted to Minister Ahmed Issa for final approval, setting the stage for any subsequent restoration activities surrounding the Menkaure Pyramid. The Supreme Council of Antiquities is tasked with furnishing the committee with all pertinent project data and documents to facilitate an informed and thorough analysis.
A global press conference is slated to follow the conclusion of the committee's deliberations and the Minister's decision, where the findings and the future course of action for the Menkaure Pyramid restoration project will be unveiled.
This collaborative and scientifically grounded approach underscores Egypt's dedication to safeguarding its unparalleled historical sites, ensuring they endure for generations to come while fostering international cooperation in the field of archaeological conservation.