Turkish Ambassador to Egypt Salih Mutlu Şen emphasised the enduring legacy and global influence of the Cairo International Film Festival (CIFF), which for nearly fifty years has brought together filmmakers from across the world, fostering intercultural connections and inspiring generations of artists.
“We are truly fortunate to be part of such a renowned institution that continues to shine on the international film stage,” Ambassador Şen remarked, speaking at a reception in honour of the Turkish delegation participating in CIFF’s 46th edition. This year’s participation marks a significant milestone in Turkish-Egyptian cultural relations.
Highlighting the deep-rooted ties between the two nations, Ambassador Şen noted, “Egyptian cinema, with its rich legacy in the region, has long influenced Turkish cinema and music since the 1930s.”
He celebrated this ongoing artistic exchange and the mutual inspiration drawn from each other’s accomplishments.
Ambassador Şen also acknowledged the rapid growth of Turkish cinema since the 1970s, referencing the global popularity of Turkish TV series and the shared cultural heritage formed through decades of creative exchange. He expressed hope for future Turkish-Egyptian co-productions that could illuminate historical narratives, such as the remarkable story of Zeynep Kamil Hanım.
“Both countries have produced world-class icons. Egypt’s Omar Sharif, Youssef Chahine, and Umm Kulthum are household names in Turkey, just as Turkish artists have made a significant mark on the Egyptian cultural scene.”
This year’s festival, running from November 12 to 21, features an unprecedented Turkish presence coordinated by Turkey’s Directorate General of Cinema and the Television and Cinema Producers Professional Association (TESİYAP). The delegation at the reception is led by Birol Güven, Turkey’s Director General of Cinema, and includes the internationally acclaimed filmmaker Nuri Bilge Ceylan.
For the first time in CIFF history, a Turkish filmmaker—Nuri Bilge Ceylan—is serving as Jury President for the International Competition of Feature Films, overseeing the selection for the prestigious Golden Pyramid Award.
This year’s Turkish participation is presented under the theme “Turkish Spotlight,” introducing Turkish cinema and culture to both Egyptian and international audiences.
Birol Güven underscored the significance of Turkey’s participation, expressing pride in this historic moment and reaffirming Turkey’s dedication to creative collaboration with Egyptian cinema.
CIFF President Hussein Fahmy applauded the strong Turkish presence, celebrating Ceylan’s appointment as Jury President and expressing hope for further Turkish-Egyptian partnerships in film.
Looking ahead, Ambassador Şen voiced his aspirations for even deeper cooperation, including joint productions that explore the countries’ intertwined histories.
He highlighted, for example, the captivating story of Zeinab Kamil Hanım, the Egyptian-Ottoman princess whose philanthropy led to the establishment of Istanbul’s Zeinab Kamil Hospital in 1862, a legacy now being penned into a novel by Rasha Amin.
“There are so many more shared stories waiting to be told, from historical epics to contemporary tales reflecting our intertwined destinies,” Ambassador Şen said. “Such collaborations will not only honor our past, but propel our cinemas into a vibrant future.”
