Speech by Jan van Zanen for Egypt’s National Holiday, 7 July 2025

Ambassador Emad Hanna,

Madam Hayam W. Mikhail (spouse),

Good afternoon everyone,

It gives me great pleasure to be able to attend the celebration of this national holiday of the Republic of Egypt once again this year. Now in this beautifully restored building of immense historical importance to The Hague. As mayor of The Hague, international city of peace and justice and, of course, diplomacy too, I like to reflect on the national holidays of the countries that have representation in our city.

On national holidays especially, we show our interest in and commitment to the relations between our countries and the links maintained between our cities. Thus providing a basis for mutual understanding and cooperation, the foundations of long-term international relations.

I was also invited to attend this festive reception in 2024 by your predecessor, Hatem Kamaleldin. I met him again last year in your capital city, Cairo. As president of the United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG), together with your president I contributed there to the opening of the World Urban Forum there, the UN Conference on sustainable urban development.

On the sidelines of the official programme I caught a glimpse of the dynamic international city of Cairo and, accompanied by Hatem, visited the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization. It was an impressive experience. Also because of that visit, I now stand here with even greater respect for Egypt’s rich history and the magnificent city of Cairo.

My warmest congratulations to Egypt on this national holiday.