Zahi Hawass demands retrieval of Egypt’s looted artifacts

CAIRO - 14 February 2019: Archaeologist Zahi Hawass stressed the difficulty of retrieving Egyptian monuments from various museums all over the world since they were transferred under the 50 percent law or the Antiquities Protection Act.

The Antiquities Protection Act permitted foreign missions to take their share of the excavations.

Hawass pointed out that there is currently an international outcry that calls for retrieving artifacts. French President Emmanuel Macron said France occupied some African countries and looted their artifacts and it is a must to return the looted items to their original countries.

Meanwhile, Greece is fighting to return its artifacts from London and China is demanding Japan and other countries to return its looted artifacts.

The veteran archaeologist announced that Egypt must demand its right to retrieve its looted artifacts, pointing out that he is currently forming a national team consisting of public figures to demand Egypt's right to retrieving its artifacts.

Hawas stated that Egypt must demand the retrieval of the five most significant pieces found in the world's museums, namely the Rosetta Stone which was seized by the French and the head of Nefertiti that Hawas asserted he collected evidence proving it was stolen.

Hawas claimed that he demanded the head of Berlin Museum to retrieve the stolen artifact; however, the revolution of Jan. 25, 2011 postponed the retrieving process.

Hawas further stated that the third most significant piece is the Planetarium located in the Louvre Museum, which was stolen by a French thief.

Moreover, Hawas claimed that the two additional artifacts were legally transferred outside Egypt, but Egypt must demand their retrieval. The two pieces are the statue of the architect of the Great Pyramid that is located in Germany and the statue of Khafre pyramid manager that is located in the USA.

Hawas further stated that the world perceived Egypt in the past as a country that does not provide museums for its priceless artifacts and cannot protect its ancient heritage.

However, the veteran archaeologist affirmed that Egypt currently holds numerous museums, including the Grand Egyptian Museum that is considered the biggest museum in the world.