Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah El Sisi received on Tuesday the Board of Trustees of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, comprising prominent Egyptian and international figures.
Among the attendees were Dr. Magdi Yacoub, Dr. Ahmed Zayed, Director of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, Dr. Ekmel eddin Ihsan oglu, former Secretary-General of the Organisation of Islamic Co-operation, Louise Mushikiwabo, Secretary-General of the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie, Miguel Moratinos, UN Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for the Alliance of Civilisations, Dr. Mohamed Benaissa, former Moroccan Foreign Minister as well as a host of top officials.
President Sisi welcomed the Board members, emphasising the crucial role the library plays in promoting knowledge, science, and culture. He highlighted the library’s efforts in fostering dialogue between civilisations and enhancing mutual understanding and coexistence among peoples.
President Sisi stressed the importance of appreciating human diversity and promoting citizenship as the foundation for protecting the social fabric. He asserted that the library should continue Egypt’s mission of building cultural bridges and promoting peace and development.
The President also emphasised the state’s commitment to encouraging innovative ideas and activities at the library, deepening scientific and cultural interests among the young people, and preparing them for future responsibilities. He stressed the importance of simplifying science through innovative technological methods, supporting a culture of creativity and innovation, and discovering young talents.
He also underlined the need to strengthen the relationship between scientific research and technological development while maintaining the Egyptian identity through various library programmes. The president assured the Board of Trustees of full state support for cultural projects aimed at providing innovative and effective visions for supporting the youth.
The board members expressed gratitude for the ongoing state support in ensuring that the library fulfills its historic cultural role. They praised President Sisi’s personal interest in the work of the library and shared their views on how the library could achieve its goals as a bridge between Egypt and the world. They also highlighted Egypt’s rich culture and history.
The meeting also included an open discussion on international and regional issues. The board commended Egypt’s pivotal role in restoring regional stability, ending the conflict in Gaza, and providing humanitarian aid to the Palestinian people.
President Sisi reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment to ending the bloodshed in Gaza and positively contributing to resolving regional crises, emphasising that promoting a culture of peace is essential for a more stable and secure future for the region and the world.