Sada Elbald English (SEE) conducted an interview with the American ambassador to Egypt Jonathan R. Cohen; he talked about the role of the US embassy in supporting the Film My Design festival (FMD) and how youth can benefit from this event in order to put a bright face on world cultural extravaganza.
The American high-ranking official said beaming at the beginning of the interview: “The FMD event is extremely creative and interesting.”
Asked how can FMD contribute to the cultural ties between Egypt and the USA, the American ambassador told SEE reporter that among its advantages, they have been taking architecture design space and presenting it in a film in Egypt, adding that he’s looking forward to seeing these performances and all these opportunities during the festival days.
Asked about the role of the embassy in supporting cultural events in Egypt, Cohen said that in terms of culture, the US Embassy aims to promote mutual understanding in its work to implement American cultural policy. It strengthens contacts with – and between – relevant cultural institutions of the US and Egypt, and also with artists, for example supporting American artists who would like to show their work in Egypt, especially the American Center in Cairo
“As you know, the US embassy has been supporting a number of well-known film festivals, such as Cairo Photo Week, Cairo Jazz festival, and Art Egypt. Every week, we try to invest in something that brings culture to the people of Egypt and especially that has an American touch to it.”
“We have spent a lot of time and energy on cultural diplomacy because as I said a number of times culture brings people together and it’s the language that transcends national boundaries, languages, geographic differences, and different religious perspectives. Everyone can see and feel the culture and be a part of it also,” he noted.
When asked how can the youth benefit from FMD, the American ambassador replied: “Well, I think youth have always been our future.”
“They can actually benefit from this unique event by getting inspiration from the designs they see and also by learning new approaches from some renowned designers and storytellers during the festival.”
Later, the American official said in his remarks at the opening festival’s opening conference, “The American guests will be meeting with Egyptian counterparts in architecture and design – I hope many of people- may discuss how buildings and spatial design connect communities and nations.”
“Film My Design also encourages an interdisciplinary exchange between experts and youths,” he concluded.
