Ambassador of Japan Iwai Fumio deliveres his speech at a reception marking the upcoming GEM opening.
Held on 16 October at the ambassador’s residence in Garden City, the event brought together GEM Director Ahmed Ghoneim, General Supervisor Tarek Tawfik, senior Egyptian officials, diplomats, media representatives, and Japanese and Egyptian partners involved in the museum’s development.
“This evening is dedicated to celebrating a momentous occasion—the forthcoming grand opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum,” Ambassador Iwai said. “Like our dear Egyptian friends, the people of Japan have long awaited the official opening of the GEM. This is a landmark event that successive Japanese ambassadors to Egypt have passionately anticipated.”
He added that Japan’s long-standing support for the project reflects “a deep and enduring fascination the Japanese people have for Egypt’s ancient heritage,” describing the museum as “a bridge not only between Japan and Egypt, but also connecting Egypt even more closely with the world.”
Japan has been a key partner in the creation of the GEM, which will be the world’s largest museum dedicated to a single civilization. The partnership began in 2003 with then–Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi’s visit to Cairo, followed by the start of construction in 2006.
Through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Tokyo has provided more than $800 million in official development assistance loans, along with extensive technical cooperation in conservation, operations, and exhibition design.
“Our support has not been limited to construction funding,” Iwai said. “It has encompassed the transport, conservation, and restoration of priceless antiquities, including artifacts associated with Tutankhamun and the Second Solar Boat of King Khufu, one of the museum’s most iconic exhibits.”
Japanese companies also contributed advanced technology and materials, with the museum’s facade and display glass panels manufactured in Japan.
JICA’s involvement includes establishing the GEM Conservation Centre, which has led the restoration and transport of thousands of artifacts, many of which will be on public display for the first time.
Ambassador Iwai noted that Japan’s collaboration will continue beyond the museum’s inauguration. “We believe it is imperative to share the wealth of knowledge and expertise cultivated through the GEM with the global community,” he said.
He also pointed to growing cultural and tourism ties between the two countries, noting that direct flights between Egypt and Japan have recently doubled to two per week.
“For many in Japan, visiting Egypt is a lifelong dream,” he stated.
He expressed hope that the museum’s opening will coincide with “meaningful progress” toward regional peace, referencing his participation in the recent Sharm El-Sheikh Agreement signing ceremony for the first phase of the comprehensive plan to end the Gaza war.
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