Egypt, Japan partner to develop Egyptian Opera House with investments of $1.17M

CAIRO – 26 January 2025: Rania Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation, along with Minister of Culture Ahmed Hanno and Japanese Ambassador to Egypt Oka Hiroshi, attended the signing of an agreement to fund the development of the National Cultural Center (Egyptian Opera House).

The agreement valued at 180 million Japanese yen (approximately $1.17 million) aims to modernize the Opera House’s infrastructure, including upgrading equipment and services, enhancing the main theater hall, and providing 20 mobile stage platforms similar to those used in international cultural venues.

 The initiative is a collaborative effort between the National Cultural Center, the Ministry of Culture, and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

Minister Al-Mashat highlighted Japan’s role in supporting Egypt’s cultural heritage, noting its contribution to the Grand Egyptian Museum, a global cultural landmark. She emphasized that Egyptian-Japanese collaboration spans multiple sectors, resulting in significant achievements.

The development project will enhance the operational efficiency of the Opera House while preserving its role as a hub for arts, music, and intellectual dialogue. It also reinforces the Opera House’s status as a premier cultural institution in the Middle East and Africa.

Minister Al-Mashat described the agreement as a testament to over 70 years of Egyptian-Japanese partnership and a commitment to fostering a future where arts and culture thrive. She expressed appreciation for Japan’s ongoing support in Egypt’s cultural and developmental journey.