PRESS RELEASE BY THE OFFICE OF THE DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER AND MINISTRY FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TOURISM Deputy Prime Minister Ian Borg attends the official opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum

Dr Borg also in talks with Dr Badr Abdelatty, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Emigration and Egyptian Expatriates of the Arab Republic of Egypt

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign and Tourism, Dr Ian Borg, represented Malta last Saturday during the official opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum, joining dignitaries and representatives from more than 70 Nations worldwide.

Dr Borg described the museum -one of the largest of its kind and over two decades in the making, as a space that brings together not only Egypt's history, but that of human civilisation itself. “In Cairo, Egypt, Malta was honoured to be among more than seventy nations invited to attend the inauguration of the Grand Egyptian Museum – a landmark institution that encapsulates not only the history of Egypt but also the broader story of human civilisation. It was a privilege and a deeply meaningful experience to represent Malta on such a momentous occasion for the Government and people of the Arab Republic of Egypt," said Dr Borg.

As part of this official visit, Dr Borg also held a bilateral meeting with Dr Badr Abdelatty, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Emigration and Egyptian Expatriates of the Arab Republic of Egypt. “During our meeting, we discussed a number of themes and priorities ranging from growing commerce to enhancing connectivity between our two countries," Dr Borg explained.

A number of regional and international matters of common interest were also discussed. “In Libya, our neighbouring country, challenges remain and we must continue working together on the situation. We also discussed maritime routes and the importance of the Suez Canal as a hub for international trade," said Dr Borg.

The ongoing situation in the Middle East was also central to discussions, particularly in light of the recent ceasefire agreement reached, with Egypt being a central player. “One must remain vigilant to ensure that the plan remains in place. Our hope is that in Israel and Palestine, the two-state solution prevails," Dr Borg emphasised.

Deputy Prime Minister Borg concluded by reaffirming his commitment to strengthening ties between Malta and Egypt, as he looks forward to continuing to build upon the excellent relationship between the two countries and expanding cooperation in the years ahead.