Cairo: The Minister of Tourism and Archaeological, Sharif Fathi, chaired the Supreme Council of Antiquities’ Board of Directors meeting at their headquarters in the new capital. He introduced the new members of the Board, highlighting their potential contributions to the Council’s ongoing efforts and achievements.

According to State Information Service Egypt, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Archaeology, Dr. Mohamed Ismail Khaled, provided updates on the Egyptian archaeological exhibitions currently held abroad. The “Treasures of the Pharaohs” exhibition in Rome has sold 87,000 tickets since its October opening. Meanwhile, the “Ancient Egypt Reveals Its Secrets” exhibition in Hong Kong has attracted 68,000 visitors since late November, and the “Ramses and the Gold of the Pharaohs” exhibition in Tokyo has welcomed 408,000 visitors since March.

During the meeting, the Board approved several Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) to enhance cooperation in archaeology and museums. An MOU with the Bahraini Authority for Culture and Archaeological Museums will facilitate exchanges in archaeological excavations, research, and exhibitions. Another agreement with Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Defense and Veterans Affairs aims to support the African Liberation Museum and the erection of a monument at the African Unity Memorial Park.

The Council also decided to increase compensation for archaeological testament holders and adjust wages for excavator workers involved in archaeological missions. Additionally, visits to the Zouser pyramid and southern cemetery of Saqara were approved to be included in the comprehensive ticket for the Saqara site. A service contract was also approved for the restoration of King Farouk’s Rest near the Pyramids of Giza.

The Board accepted donations from Sharb Al-Arabi Company, including 12 air purifiers, to enhance the air quality in the pyramids of King Khafra and King Mankawara. They also received environmentally-friendly devices to manage humidity in the Pyramid areas of Giza and Saqara, aiming to improve conditions within these historic sites.