Egypt's Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Ahmed Issa received a number of senior figures from the House of Representatives and the Senate at the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM).
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Mohamed Abou Al-Enein, the Senate's Second Deputy Speaker Phoebe Fawzi, and Secretary-General of the Senate Mahmoud Ismail Etman were among the guests who were given a tour of the sections of the massive museum and the interactive exhibition of King Tutankhamun.
During the tour, the Minister explained the museum's purpose in terms of culture, tourism, and economics. He also provided information about the estimated financial returns once the museum is fully operational.
He revealed that the Egyptian state has invested around $1.5 billion in the museum since its establishment, noting that the museum is expected to recover this amount through its revenues or through the spending of tourists who visit the Egyptian tourist destination.
The Minister also emphasized the social and scientific importance of the museum, adding that it will allow the masses of the Egyptian people to reconnect with their history and learn about the ancient Egyptians' contributions to progress in all aspects of life.
"GEM is widely regarded as an international scientific institution and educational hub," said Issa.
The Minister further highlighted the financial reform that the Supreme Council of Antiquities underwent over the past two years, saying: "This critical reform has helped the council to finance its projects and spending on archaeological sites and museums, providing tourists with the quality tourist experience they deserve, without relying on the state's general budget."
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