Highlighting Egypt’s mega national projects, Shvydkoy described them as part of building a great country, including the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) and the New Capital. He called the scale of these projects “amazing and astonishing,” adding, “It is a miracle.”
In response to Ahram Online’s questions during a press conference at the Russian Embassy in Cairo, Shvydkoy outlined several key areas aimed at strengthening cultural relations between Egypt and Russia.
He stressed that culture and art serve as a form of soft power, acting as a bridge that connects people and opens new horizons for cooperation.
“Disagreements may arise at the political table, but they can be overcome at the diplomatic table,” he said. “Art and culture are the language of humanity, and cultural communication is often more important than military or economic power.”
Shvydkoy also highlighted Egypt’s peaceful development, describing it as vital for the region. “Egypt maintains a balance between the West, Russia, and the Global South. This is important and not simple; it requires very sophisticated diplomacy.”
“As a Russian citizen, I understand how complicated this is,” he added. “At the same time, I feel a sense of gratitude that Egypt is striving to maintain this balance. This commitment is one of the strongest impressions I took from my visit.”
On the Palestinian issue, Shvydkoy emphasized its critical importance for the region.
“The position of the Russian Federation is clear. We advocate equal opportunities for all nations. Amid so much tragedy, we must preserve what gives people a chance for life. This is paramount. People must be given the chance for a real, normal life,” he said.
He noted that Palestinian displacement presents a humanitarian challenge not only for Palestinians but also for Egypt and neighbouring countries. “Our position is to provide a chance for peace to all nations in the region. It is also vital that the conflict in Gaza does not disrupt daily life in Egypt and other countries.”
“For us, finding a balance is always delicate,” he continued. “When we speak of peace, everyone expresses commitment, yet the next day this peace can be destroyed. Russia’s position is that a real compromise must be sought among all sides.”
Turning to tourism, Shvydkoy emphasized that Russian tourists continue to hold a special place in Egypt. He said the country, along with East Asian destinations, remains a top choice for Russian visitors and continues to be Russia’s largest partner in this vital sector.
He added that he met with Egypt’s Minister of Higher Education to discuss enhancing cooperation in university education, noting the significant number of Egyptian students studying in Russian universities.
Shvydkoy said work is also underway to promote and expand the study of the Russian language, particularly in areas relevant to bilateral cooperation, to support ongoing joint projects.
He explained that he met with Egyptian film industry officials to explore producing joint dramas, which would foster cultural exchange and open new avenues for collaboration between artists from both countries.
He also met with the official association of the movie industry to discuss potential co-productions—not only in fiction but in serials as well.
“In Egypt, one of the major projects this year included 25 serials for Ramadan,” he said. “We discussed promoting an Egyptian movie in Russia, and possibly a Russian movie in Egypt. Films are the most popular art in both our countries, including online productions.”
“We need citizen dialogue—dialogue between civil societies,” he continued. “When done properly, the results are more practical. We remember the Egypt-Soviet Friendship Society. A professional dialogue between civil societies will make this closer and more effective.”
Shvydkoy concluded by reflecting on the enduring power of culture. “Culture is a form of contact with eternity,” he said. “When we make contact between cultures, this is eternity. When we engage with politicians, it is temporary. We address only temporary problems. The slogan of eternity for Egypt is very important.”
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