Singaporean President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and his spouse Jane Yumiko Ittogi pose for an image in front of the sphinx and Pyramids of Giza. Photo courtesy of Egyptian cabinet.
According to the Egyptian cabinet, the Singaporean president and first lady were welcomed at the GEM by CEO Ahmed Ghoneim, who presented them with a miniature replica of King Tutankhamun’s golden mask as a commemorative gift.
Their tour covered the outdoor courtyard, the main hall, the Grand Staircase, and the 12 main exhibition halls, which trace the history of ancient Egyptian civilization from its earliest dynasties through the Greco-Roman era.
President Shanmugaratnam praised the museum’s exceptional collection, the quality of its artefacts, and the design and presentation of its displays.
The Singaporean president and his delegation then visited the Giza Plateau, where they were received by Ashraf Mohie El-Din, head of the Pyramids Antiquities Area.
The tour included a visit to the Great Pyramid, where the delegation was briefed on its history and construction, followed by a stop at the Sphinx to learn about its carving and cultural significance. They also visited the Panorama area for a wide view of the archaeological site.
President Shanmugaratnam expressed admiration for the achievements of ancient Egyptian civilization and the architectural ingenuity behind the pyramids, noting their impressive scale.
The visit concluded with a commemorative photo.
The Singaporean president and his wife arrived in Cairo on Saturday, where they were received by President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi and his wife, Intisar El-Sisi, at Ittihadiya Palace.
This marks the Singaporean leader’s first official trip to the Middle East and North Africa since taking office in 2024.
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