CAIRO — President of the Cairo International Film Festival (CIFF) and renowned Egyptian actor Hussein Fahmy has hailed China’s expanding participation in the festival, describing Chinese cinema as “important, longstanding, and highly respected” by Egyptian filmmakers, according to Xinhua.
Speaking in an interview with Xinhua following the conclusion of the festival’s 46th edition, Fahmy noted that Chinese engagement at CIFF has increased steadily in recent years.
“Chinese participation grows every year,” he said. “This year, we welcomed a Chinese jury member and showcased several Chinese films. This is very important to us.”
The 2025 edition witnessed significant recognition for Chinese creative works. The Botanist, directed by Jing Yi, secured the Network for the Promotion of Asian Cinema (NETPAC) Award for Best Asian Feature Film, as well as the International Critics’ Week Special Mention. Additionally, acclaimed director Guan Hu received the festival’s prestigious Lifetime Achievement Golden Pyramid Award during the closing ceremony, where he also served on the jury of the International Competition.
Other Chinese contributions included the documentary Cherished Land, screened within the International Panorama section.
Fahmy highlighted the growing institutional cooperation between Egypt and China in the field of cinema. Last year, CIFF signed a partnership agreement with China Media Group, followed this year by strengthened ties with the Golden Panda Awards during Fahmy’s visit to Chengdu.
“Chinese technology has supported us immensely,” he added. “At the cinematic restoration center in Egyptian Media Production City, many of our Chinese partners are working alongside us, and we rely on advanced Chinese equipment to restore and preserve Egyptian cinema.”
Fahmy said that CIFF remains committed to offering Egyptian audiences diverse international film experiences.
“Different cultures matter to us — especially Chinese culture, which is ancient, rich and deeply rooted,” he noted. “It is vital for Egyptian audiences to experience these cinematic perspectives.”
Reflecting on China’s rapid cultural and technological rise, Fahmy expressed confidence in the future of Chinese filmmaking.
“Chinese cinema is advancing without a doubt,” he said. “China is a highly advanced nation with tremendous capabilities, and its film industry will continue to grow and secure an even stronger global position.”
Established in 1976, the Cairo International Film Festival is the oldest internationally recognized film festival in the Arab world and remains one of the region’s most influential cultural platforms. This year’s edition was held at the Cairo Opera House from November 12 to 21 and showcased approximately 150 films from around the world.
