The signing of the agreement coincides with the 70th anniversary of Egyptian-Japanese relations, especially developmental cooperation.

The grant aims to enhance the National Cultural Centre's infrastructure by developing devices and equipment, improving services, upgrading the main theatre hall, and providing 20 mobile stage platforms similar to those in opera.

This will be achieved through joint efforts between the National Cultural Centre and the Ministry of Culture in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

This agreement marks a new milestone in the long-standing partnership with Japan, established in 1954, Minister Al-Mashat said in her speech.

Al-Mashat stressed that this partnership has flourished over decades, covering multiple sectors. It is based on mutual respect, shared ambitions, and a firm commitment to sustainable development and cultural dialogue.

Japan has also contributed to establishing the Grand Egyptian Museum, a cultural beacon for all countries worldwide.

“The Egyptian-Japanese Cooperation Portfolio highlights this integration between Egypt's Vision 2030 and the government's programme (2024–2027) with Japanese development priorities," the minister highlighted.

"Over seven decades, Japan has provided exceptional support to Egypt through developmental cooperation efforts,” she affirmed.

Furthermore, Al-Mashat clarified that this agreement will enhance the Egyptian Opera House's operational efficiency while maintaining its role as a beacon for arts, music, thought, and knowledge.

It also aims to equip the National Cultural Centre with modern systems, reinforcing its status as the most significant cultural and artistic landmark in the Middle East and Africa.

Minister Hanno, for his part, said this project is an important milestone in the ongoing efforts to enhance Egypt's cultural scene and provide an environment that supports creativity, innovation, and artistic expression.

He added that the Egyptian Opera House has always been a model for artistic excellence, serving as a platform for local and international artists.

He also stated that it symbolizes the deep cultural relations between Egypt and Japan.

Hanno explained that the grant will contribute to preserving Egypt's rich cultural heritage while embracing the future with modern tools and technologies that support innovation in the arts.

Additionally, the minister expressed his gratitude to the Japanese partners for their contributions and reaffirmed Egypt's commitment to fostering a thriving cultural system that celebrates the past and looks to the future with hope and determination.

Meanwhile, Japan's ambassador stated that the agreement continues the Japanese government’s efforts to develop the Egyptian Opera House and deepen Egyptian-Japanese relations. It also enhances the strategic partnership between the two countries across various development sectors.

Kato Kin, a representative of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), said the agreement serves as a testament to the enduring friendship between the two countries.

In 1983, Japan granted the Egyptian government funding to rebuild the Egyptian Opera House, and it was completed in 1988.

The grants and technical cooperation from the Japanese side amount to approximately $2.4 billion, while developmental funding has exceeded $7.2 billion.