The event took place in the presence of representatives of the Egyptian government and the diplomatic community, with the participation of diverse members of the Egyptian cultural scene, as well as representatives of Swiss businesses in Egypt. It was organized under the auspices of the Egyptian Tourism Authority (ETA), powered by the Swiss company Nestlé and in partnership with Orascom Pyramids Entertainment.
In her speech, Ambassador Yvonne Baumann stated: “The exchanges and encounters between Swiss and Egyptians dates back centuries ago, with thriving communities having marked both countries. Our friendship is rock-solid – just like the majestic pyramids across which we are gathered tonight. Or as Article 1 of the Treaty reads: ‘There shall be between Switzerland and Egypt, as well as between their nationals, perpetual peace and an unbreakable friendship.’”
“There is no better way to establish connections between people around the world than art,” said Mr. Amr El Kady, CEO of Egyptian Tourism Authority. He described the event by the Great Pyramids of Giza to celebrate art in its finest shape, where ancient and contemporary arts come together as an expression of a continuous artistic journey of humanity through thousands of years.
El-Kady added that it is also a manifestation of cooperation between Egypt and Switzerland on all fronts especially in tourism where Swiss tourists are always welcomed in Egypt to enjoy the marvels of ancient Egyptian civilization, the stunning beautiful resorts or delve into the rich cultural heritage of Cairo. “I would like to thank her excellency the Ambassador of Switzerland to Cairo and her team members as well as my colleagues at the Egyptian Tourism Authority who have been working together to make this amazing project possible,” El- Kady pointed out.
Tarek Kamel, Chairman and CEO of Nestlé Egypt and Sudan, affirmed the strong partnership between Egypt and Switzerland, which enhances economic, trade, and cultural cooperation between the two countries. He highlighted the vital role played by Nestlé in this shared journey. Kamel expressed his happiness on the occasion of Nestlé's upcoming celebration of 125 years of business operations in Egypt.
Saype’s fresco at the Pyramids Plateau
The world-renowned artist Saype paints large images on different soils using 100% biodegradable materials made of natural pigments made of chalk and coal. The fresco of two holding hands was first painted in 2019 in front of the Eiffel Tower in Paris. It conveys a message of friendship and togetherness.
Since 2019, the fresco has been created in many places around the world. For the 20th step of his worldwide project, it has finally arrived at the last remaining Wonder of the Ancient World, the Pyramids of Giza. This emblematic site was chosen not just for its beauty, but also because it embodies eternity. It symbolizes the continuity and interconnection of humanity through time.
90-years anniversary of Friendship Treaty
On 7 June 1934, Switzerland and Egypt concluded a Treaty of Friendship, stating the intention of establishing diplomatic relations between the two countries. In March 1935, Switzerland opened its first official representation in Cairo and Minister Henri Martin presented his credentials to His Majesty King Fouad I. In 1957, the representation was upgraded to an Embassy.
Until today, Egypt remains a crucial partner for Switzerland: Egypt is the largest trade market on the continent. Swiss investments rank among the top 10 in Egypt. For 45 years, Switzerland also has a broad cooperation program with Egypt, based on mutual trust and respect. The partnership entails projects from green growth, water and waste management to supporting small and medium enterprises and women entrepreneurs. Egypt is a pillar of peace and stability in the region.
From the arrival of the first Egyptians at the foot of the Alps and the first Swiss at the Pyramids, Hundreds of years ago the relations between the two people grew and diversified over time. Today, the friendship between the Egyptian and Swiss people extends to a lively and rich exchange in culture, arts and science. Egypt, this country of great natural, cultural and unique historic attractions, also ranks among the favorite travel destinations of Swiss tourists, further enhancing the people-to-people ties between our countries.
*Joint Press Release with the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, represented by the Egyptian Tourism Authority
