File Photo: Khaled El-Enany, former Minister of Tourism and Antiquities of Egypt and candidate to become the head of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) poses during a photo session in Paris. AFP
Speaking to Al-Qahera News on Monday, El-Enany said Egypt’s bid was “scientifically prepared and professionally executed,” describing himself as proud to have served as “Egypt’s national nominee.”
He said the outcome, 55 votes out of 57, the widest margin in UNESCO’s history, reflected “broad satisfaction with Egypt’s candidate.”
El-Enany pledged to approach the role “with seriousness and professionalism,” vowing to act “solely for UNESCO’s benefit, without bias or discrimination.”
He expressed gratitude to Arab and African nations for their support and said, “The world needs UNESCO more than ever before.”
Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty said the result was “a historic milestone for Egypt and the Arab world,” crediting President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi’s direct backing and coordination across Egyptian embassies worldwide.
Abdelatty said having an Arab at the helm of UNESCO “ends a historical absence” and would strengthen the organization’s role in confronting extremism, protecting heritage, and advancing education and women’s empowerment.
El-Enany is the first Arab and second African to lead UNESCO since Senegal’s Amadou-Makhtar Mbow (1974–1987). His appointment will be formally ratified at the organization’s General Conference in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, on 6 November.
Short link: