Egypt’s Tourism and Antiquities Minister Sherif Fathy received the WTTC Global Champion Award during his participation in the World Travel & Tourism Council’s 26th Global Summit, currently taking place in Valletta, Malta. The award was presented by WTTC Chairman Manfredi Lefebvre and CEO Gloria Guevara.
The annual award recognizes outstanding public-sector leaders for their contributions to travel and tourism growth, the sector’s international competitiveness and standing, and cooperation with the private sector. This year’s honourees also included the tourism ministers of Türkiye, India and South Africa.
During the ceremony, international broadcaster Richard Quest introduced the minister, explaining that the award recognized tourism ministers’ leadership in developing the sector and supporting its growth. He praised Egypt’s considerable tourism assets and potential, stressing the importance of decisive leadership, perseverance in addressing challenges, and delivering results that support the success and continued growth of Egyptian tourism.
In press and media interviews, Fathy expressed his appreciation for the recognition. He said the award honoured not only him, but also Egypt, its leadership and the team working to achieve national tourism development objectives and strengthen the country’s position on the global tourism map.
Asked about the future of Egyptian tourism, Fathy said supporting and encouraging the private sector, both domestically and internationally, were essential to sustainable growth. He explained that work was guided by a long-term vision, clear strategies and specific targets to strengthen Egypt’s tourism position and offer varied, authentic and sustainable experiences for visitors from different markets.
On Egyptian antiquities and visitor access, the minister stressed that preservation and conservation were top priorities, representing a national and cultural responsibility to safeguard this unique heritage for future generations.
He highlighted the ministry’s commitment to closer private-sector cooperation to improve the visitor experience at museums and archaeological sites. Exceptional tourism experiences can allow visitors to discover Egyptian civilization in richer, more interactive ways, while their revenues support investment in people and the development, restoration and conservation of archaeological sites.
Fathy added that the ministry’s temporary archaeological exhibitions around the world were an important means of sharing Egyptian heritage and introducing the country’s ancient history. They showcase the richness and diversity of its civilization and strengthen its international cultural and tourism presence.
