On the occasion of Egypt’s National Day, H.E. Ambassador Emad Magdy Hanna Kamel and Mrs. Kamel graciously hosted a diplomatic reception at the residence of the Arab Republic of Egypt in The Hague. The celebration marked the 73rd anniversary of the July 23rd Revolution, ushering in a new era for modern Egypt.
The event brought together a distinguished gathering of ambassadors, heads of international organizations, and Dutch officials. Among the notable attendees were the Honorable Mr. Jan van Zanen, Mayor of The Hague; H.E. Mr. Maarten Boef, Foreign Policy & Defense Advisor to the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of the Netherlands; and H.E. Ambassador Guusje Altes, Director of the North Africa and Middle East Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
In his address, Ambassador Kamel reflected on Egypt’s journey and its vision for the future:
“Egypt today is a nation of resilience and ambition, rooted in a rich heritage … and committed to a future of inclusive development. From leading climate diplomacy in COP27, to advancing infrastructure and regional integration, to preserving cultural heritage by presenting to the world its new GEM, the Grand Egyptian Museum, Egypt remains at the forefront of regional transformation.”
The Ambassador highlighted the dynamic and enduring relationship between Egypt and the Netherlands, anchored in mutual respect and growing cooperation. He pointed to longstanding collaborations in water, energy, and food security as successful examples of bilateral synergy:
“Next year, we shall celebrate 50 years of cooperation in the field of water management between our two countries. In addition, a Partnership for International Business collaboration has been established, reflecting the significant opportunities for joint work in the horticulture sector. Furthermore, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the Suez Canal Economic Zone and the Port of Rotterdam, marking the beginning of an intensive collaboration in the energy sector, with a particular focus on green hydrogen.”
Ambassador Kamel also noted Egypt’s strong engagement in international climate diplomacy:
“Egypt participated with a high-level delegation in Rotterdam’s World Hydrogen Summit in May 2025, and organized a well-attended and highly engaging roundtable on waste management with significant Dutch participation, on its sideline.”
He praised the continued momentum in bilateral relations, reflected in high-level visits and meetings, culminating in several recent phone calls between President El-Sisi and Prime Minister Schoof. These were preceded by the visit of Mr. Caspar Veldkamp, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands, to Egypt in November 2024, and followed by other ministerial visits.
“Moreover, there has also been reciprocal visits during the past months, notably the valuable participation of the Mayor of The Hague in the World Urban Forum, held in Cairo in November 2024, as well as political consultations at the level of Assistant Ministers of Foreign Affairs, which were held in June 2025 in The Hague, followed by a bilateral migration dialogue last week in Cairo.
As part of our ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral ties, the Embassy continues to prioritize the enhancement of cooperation between the legislative bodies of Egypt and the Netherlands. We are committed to fostering deeper engagement between the two parliaments, encouraging dialogue, mutual understanding, and parliamentary diplomacy.”
On the regional front, the Ambassador addressed Egypt’s commitment to peace and humanitarian support in the Middle East:
“Egypt remains deeply concerned by the ongoing humanitarian catastrophe unfolding in the Gaza Strip. The war has brought unimaginable suffering to the Palestinian people. Thousands of innocent lives have been lost, families displaced, and an entire population pushed to the brink of starvation and despair.”
“Egypt spared no effort in supporting the Palestinian people during the ongoing crisis in Gaza. Through the Rafah crossing, Egypt has facilitated the delivery of essential humanitarian aid and medical supplies, while also receiving and treating injured Palestinians in Egyptian hospitals. Firm in its principles, Egypt has consistently rejected any attempts to forcibly displace Palestinians from their land or diminish the scope of their just cause.”
He emphasized Egypt’s leadership at the March 2025 Arab Summit in Cairo, where Egypt reaffirmed its support for Palestinian ownership and sustainable humanitarian solutions:
“In collaboration with regional and international partners, Egypt continues its tireless efforts to achieve a sustainable ceasefire and pave the way for a just and lasting resolution to the conflict, through the establishment of an independent Palestinian state along the June 4, 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.”
Then the Ambassador addressed his fellow compatriots. The evening concluded with warm exchanges between Egyptian diplomats, Dutch officials, and members of the international community. Guests were treated to a variety of traditional Egyptian delicacies, including beloved sweets like baklava.
As always, Egypt charmed with its unique blend of timeless cultural heritage and modernity.
