Madrid – Within the framework of his official meetings on the sidelines of the FITUR 2026 International Tourism Trade Fair, Mr. Sherif Fathy, Egypt's Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, met with Mr. Ernest Urtasun, the Spanish Minister of Culture, to discuss enhancing bilateral cooperation across several shared sectors.
The meeting took place in the Spanish capital, Madrid, with the attendance of Ambassador Ihab Badawi, Egypt's Ambassador to Spain; Dr. Ahmed Youssef, CEO of the Egyptian Tourism Promotion Board (ETPB); and Mr. Ahmed Nabil, Assistant Minister for Aviation and Follow-up.
A Strategic Leap in Bilateral Relations
During the discussions, both ministers underscored the deep-rooted friendship between Egypt and Spain. They highlighted the "qualitative leap" in relations following the elevation of their ties to a Strategic Partnership during President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi’s visit to Madrid in February 2025.
The ministers also noted that the visit of the King and Queen of Spain to Egypt last September—and the King’s attendance at the official opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) on November 1st—reflects a mutual commitment to deepening cooperation. Both parties expressed their desire to build on this positive momentum to serve the strategic interests of both nations.
Strengthening Cultural and Archaeological Ties
Mr. Urtasun and Mr. Fathy welcomed the growing synergy in the culture and tourism sectors. They emphasized the importance of intensifying collaboration in archaeology, particularly praising the role of Spanish archaeological missions in excavation and restoration efforts aimed at preserving Egyptian heritage. Such partnerships, they noted, bolster cultural exchange and support sustainable development goals.
Promoting "Unmatched Diversity"
Minister Sherif Fathy took the opportunity to outline the Ministry’s current promotional strategy under the slogan "Unmatched Diversity." He highlighted that:
While Spanish tourists traditionally favor Cultural Tourism, Egypt offers a wealth of diverse products that can be integrated into comprehensive travel packages.
Egypt boasts a significantly longer summer season than Spain, offering Spanish travelers a unique opportunity to enjoy sunny coastal destinations.
The Red Sea region, specifically Sharm El-Sheikh and St. Catherine, provides a distinctive blend of natural beauty and profound cultural and archaeological significance that differs from European coastal offerings.
An Invitation to the Grand Egyptian Museum
Concluding the meeting, Minister Fathy extended an official invitation to his Spanish counterpart to visit Egypt. He specifically highlighted a visit to the Grand Egyptian Museum to experience firsthand its unparalleled archaeological treasures and unique cultural narrative.
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