Latest news with #NaguibMahfouz
Asharq Al-Awsat
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Three Rivers, One Bridge: Mahfouz's Last Dreams Revisited
With refreshing honesty, the Libyan British novelist Hisham Matar begins his translation of Naguib Mahfouz's last dreams with a confession. During their only meeting in the 1990s, Matar asked Mahfouz how he viewed writers who write in a language other than their mother tongue. The question reflected the concerns of a young writer born in America, raised partly in Cairo, and later sent to a British boarding school under a false identity to evade persecution by Gaddafi's regime, which had disappeared his dissident father. Naguib Mahfouz on the balcony of his café overlooking Tahrir Square in Cairo, 1988. (AFP) Mahfouz's reply was as concise and sharp as his prose: "You belong to the language you write in." Yet Matar admits that, in later recollections of this exchange, he often caught himself embellishing Mahfouz's words, adding an unspoken elaboration: "Every language is its own river, with its own terrain and ecology, its own banks and tides, its own source and destinations where it empties, and therefore, every writer who writes in that language must swim in its river." In this sense, I Found Myself... The Last Dreams, published by Penguin's Viking last week, attempts to be a bridge between three rivers: the Arabic in which Mahfouz wrote his original text, the English into which Matar translated it, and the visual language of the American photographer Diana Matar; the translator's wife whose images of Cairo are interspersed throughout the book. No easy task. Mahfouz's translations have often sparked debate—whether over inaccuracies, neglected context, or occasional editorial interference. A touch of this affects Matar's attempt without ruining it. For instance, in translating Dream 211, where Mahfouz finds himself facing Saad Zaghloul, leader of the 1919 revolution, alongside "Umm al-Masriyyin" (Mother of the Egyptians)—a title referring to Zaghloul's wife, Safiya—Matar misinterprets the epithet as a symbolic allusion to Egypt itself, rendering it "Mother Egypt." Beyond this, however, the first published translation by Pulitzer-winning Matar flows smoothly, matching the simplicity of his project's origin story: it began one morning over coffee at the kitchen table, where he translated a few dreams for his wife, only to find himself having done dozens—eventually deciding to publish them as his first major translation. The images complement the dreamlike atmosphere without attempting to directly translate any of them. (Courtesy of Diana Matar) Perhaps the concise, economical language of Mahfouz's final dreams made the task easier. Between dreams, Diana Matar's photographs of Cairo—Mahfouz's city and muse—appear shrouded in shadows, dust, and fleeting impressions, sometimes ghostly in detail, complementing the dreamscapes without directly illustrating them. Here, she joins Mahfouz in her love for Cairo, which became her "muse" after accompanying her husband to that summer meeting with the Arab world's sole Nobel laureate in literature. Relying on black-and-white imagery and abstraction where possible, Diana seems to bridge the temporal gap between her Cairo and Mahfouz's. Diana Matar took most of the book's photographs between the late 1990s and early 2000s. (Courtesy of Diana Matar) In his introduction's closing lines, Hisham Matar imagines Mahfouz flipping through the translation and remarking, in his trademark brevity: "Of course." But perhaps closer to the truth is that he would repeat his original verdict: "You belong to the language you write in." Perhaps we must accept that translation—not just of this book, but in general—is a bridge, not a mirror. And that is enough.
Al-Ahram Weekly
7 days ago
- Business
- Al-Ahram Weekly
Iran's FM prays at Al-Hussein Mosque, dines at traditional restaurant in Cairo - Foreign Affairs
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi visited key landmarks in Cairo and met with prominent Egyptian figures during a trip to Egypt on Monday. In a post on the X platform Tuesday morning, Minister Araghchi said he performing Maghrib and Isha prayers at Cairo's historic Al-Hussein Mosque. He later dined with prominent Egyptian figures at the iconic Naguib Mahfouz restaurant in Khan El Khalili– a venue that hosted President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi and French President Emmanuel Macron during the latter's visit in April. Among the prominent figures Araghchi dined with were former Egyptian foreign ministers Amr Moussa, Nabil Fahmy, and Mohamed El-Orabi. The top Iranian diplomat described the dinner conversation as 'very productive.' Earlier on Monday, Araghchi also met with President El-Sisi, where they discussed bilateral and regional issues, including the current regional conflict. He also held talks with his Egyptian counterpart, Badr Abdelatty, where both ministers expressed a shared interest in strengthening ties. They agreed to enhance cooperation in key areas, including trade, tourism, and continued political dialogue. While formal diplomatic ties have yet to be fully restored, with ambassadors still not reappointed, Araghchi noted that close coordination between the two sides continues. He added that Iran is not pressing for a specific timeline, and will proceed at Egypt's pace, stating, 'When our brothers in Egypt are ready, we will be ready.' The Iranian foreign minister stated that 'After many years, Iranian and Egyptian diplomacy has entered a new phase.' إنني سعيد بتواجدي في القاهرة مرةً أخرى. لقد كانت لدي لقاءات مهمة للغاية مع فخامة الرئيس عبد الفتاح السيسي، ومعالي وزير الخارجية بدر عبد العاطي. بعد سنواتٍ طويلة، دخلت الدبلوماسية بين إيران ومصر مرحلةً جديدة. مستوى التفاعل والتعاون السياسي، والأهم من ذلك مستوى الثقة والاطمئنان في… — Seyed Abbas Araghchi (@araghchi) June 3, 2025 This marked Araghchi's second visit to Egypt since becoming foreign minister in August 2024. His first trip, in October, was the first by a high-ranking Iranian official to Cairo in over a decade. In recent years, ties between Egypt and Iran have notably improved following decades of tension rooted in Iran's 1979 Islamic Revolution and Egypt's peace agreement with Israel the same year. Renewed diplomatic engagement in 2023—especially in the wake of the war in Gaza—led to a wave of senior-level talks, reflecting a mutual interest in restoring normalised relations. 'As two influential regional powers with ancient cultures and civilisations, Iran and Egypt share a joint responsibility for maintaining peace, stability, and calm in the region,' Araghchi added in his X post. Follow us on: Facebook Instagram Whatsapp Short link:
Daily News Egypt
13-04-2025
- Politics
- Daily News Egypt
Special Article by Ambassador of the Republic of Korea Kim Yonghyon on the 30th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic ties between Korea and Egypt
Today marks the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Korea and Egypt. I am privileged to serve as Korean Ambassador in Cairo at this meaningful time. On this auspicious day, I extend my warmest greetings and heartfelt gratitude to the people of Egypt. Since my arrival in Cairo in 2023, the past two years have been a joyful and eye-opening journey of discovering Egypt. Like many Koreans, my knowledge was once limited to the Pyramids, Sphinx, Cairo Declaration of 1943, Suez Canal, and Aswan High Dam. But living here has greatly broadened and deepened my perspective. I've come to truly understand Egypt's unique place in the world and its vital role in politics, diplomacy, economy, culture, arts, and sports. Above all, I am deeply impressed by the brilliance of the Egyptian people, their unmatched talent and intellectual strength, rooted in a rich historical and cultural heritage. I have visited many places across Egypt, including Sinai, Luxor, Baharia, and Siwa. Not only the cultural and historical heritage of each region but also their natural beauties captivated me. Magnificent sunrise at the top of Mt Sinai, beautiful sunset in the Western Desert, amazing White rocks of the White Desert, colorful coral reef of the Blue Hole in the Red Sea, emerald seawater along the North Coast beach.… As part of my efforts to encourage more Koreans to enjoy those beauties, I successfully advocated for easing my Government's hither-to restrictive travel advisory, particularly in Siwa Oasis, and Sinai. I also learned that Egypt established the railway system in the early 19th century, becoming the second country in the world to do so. Egypt has produced many internationally renowned figures such as Dr. Magdi Yacoub and Naguib Mahfouz. Last year, with Korean author Han Kang winning the Nobel Prize for Literature, Korea joined Egypt in the esteemed club of Nobel laureates in literature. I must commend Egypt's diplomatic leadership in the regional peace and stability, particularly in the Gaza crisis since October 2023. Egypt has been playing a pivotal mediation role and demonstrated its leadership in proposing a comprehensive reconstruction plan for Gaza. Korea, as an elected member of the UN Security Council, highly appreciates Egypt's contributions and is committed to work together with the international community. Korea has provided $40 million in humanitarian aid to Palestinians since October 2023. Egyptians are so friendly, warm-hearted and passionate. They uphold the value of family and community high. We Koreans share these traits and values. These shared values have been a driving force behind our fast-growing cultural ties. The love and enthusiasm for Korean culture (K-Culture) and Korean language in Egypt, especially among youth, is truly remarkable. Egypt's best students enroll at the Korean Department of Ain Shams University Al-Alsun Faculty. The growing popularity of the K-Culture in Egypt is closely connected to the overall development of our bilateral relations and the increasing presence of leading Korean companies in Egypt. Korea is seen as a symbol of success and future opportunities for Egyptian youth. To meet the growing demand for Korean language learning in Egypt, the Embassy plans to establish two more King Sejong Institutes, a Korean language academy, at Alexandria University and Ain Shams University. As our cultural and economic ties continue to grow, they create a positive, reinforcing cycle that benefits both nations. As Ambassador to Egypt, I am dedicated to promoting a greater awareness of Egyptian culture, believing that this will strengthen the bond between our nations and bring our hearts closer together. One example was the Iftar event I hosted during Ramadan in March at my residence to commemorate Egypt's legendary singer Umm Kulthum. Many Egyptian dignitaries and Korean expatriate leaders attended and shared Iftar food prepared in both Egyptian and Korean styles, watched an Umm Kulthum documentary, and enjoyed cultural performances by Egyptian and Korean artists. Over the past 30 years, our bilateral relations have made remarkable progress. High-level exchanges such as President El-Sisi's visit to Korea in 2016 and President Moon Jae-in's visit to Egypt in 2022 have upgraded our relationship to that of comprehensive cooperative partners and expanded horizons of the bilateral relations to new frontiers. I had the honor of accompanying President Moon in 2022 as Secretary to the President for Foreign Policy. I was deeply impressed by President El-Sisi's keen interest in the development of Korea-Egypt relations and his pragmatic approach to achieving substantial cooperation. Bilateral trade has increased more than fivefold, surpassing $3 billion in 2022. Samsung and LG have established factories in Egypt, producing 'Made-in-Egypt' products for export. The Embassy, alongside the KOTRA Cairo office, actively promotes Egypt's favorable investment environment to the Korean business community. More and more Korean companies are showing interests in Egypt, with actual investments on the rise. Korea and Egypt are also in discussions to create a framework for more sustainable economic cooperation through the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), which will not only expand trade but also contribute to increased investment by Korean companies in Egypt. The achievements in development cooperation are huge, too. Egypt is Korea's sole priority partner for development cooperation in the MENA region. We have worked together on various projects in transportation, education, public administration, and the environment sectors, contributing to Egypt's national initiatives such as Vision 2030. KOICA collaborates closely with Beni Suef Technological University, a successful example of Egypt's initiative of new four-year technological universities. KOICA also plays an important role in Egypt's digital transformation, including the establishment of Egypt's first electronic government procurement system and application of AI technology to customs clearance. I expect more new projects will emerge as the two countries agreed to increase the development cooperation fund from $1 billion to $3 billion last year at the inaugural Korea-Africa Summit in Seoul. To celebrate the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations, the Korean Embassy, in close cooperation with the Egyptian side, prepares various events and activities including the official commemorative ceremony that will be held in conjunction with an Economic Conference. The Embassy plans many cultural events, beginning with a Cultural Symposium and Performance (April 30th), to classical and traditional music performances, sports events such as Taekwondo competition, Korea Week, and a Special Exhibition, etc. As Korea seeks to expand its cooperation with the Global South, willing to assume more responsibilities in the international arena, Egypt will be an invaluable partner, representing a land of opportunity. As Goldman Sachs' 2024 global economic forecast ranks Egypt as the 7th largest by 2075, Egypt can be the answer for Korean companies in search of new investment destinations in the rapidly changing global geo-economic landscape. I sincerely hope that this year will serve to bring the hearts of our two peoples closer together and lay the foundation for further development in our bilateral relations. Join in our journey toward hope and co-prosperity into the boundless future.
Leaders
07-04-2025
- Politics
- Leaders
Photos: Macron Tours Grand Egyptian Museum, Old Cairo
The French President, Emmanuel Macron, visited the Grand Egyptian Museum and toured the streets of Old Cairo. Macron is currently on a three-day official visit to Egypt. On Sunday, Macron visited the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza, where he toured the sections accessible to the public before the museum's official inauguration on July 3, 2025. Photos and video footages showed Macron and the Egyptian President, Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi, walking through the streets of the famous Al-Hussien Square, where the iconic Al-Hussein Mosque and Shrine lie, and Khan Al-Khalili district, an ancient historic market in Cairo. Both leaders also had dinner at the Naguib Mahfouz restaurant, one of the district's renowned traditional restaurants. After the tour, the French President thanked Al-Sisi and the Egyptian people for their warm welcome and hospitality, praising the friendship between France and Egypt. Merci au Président Abdel Fattah al-Sissi et au peuple égyptien pour leur accueil chaleureux. Cette ferveur, ces drapeaux, cette énergie digne de Khân al-Khalili : un hommage vibrant à l'amitié qui unit l'Égypte et la France ! — Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) April 6, 2025 Short link : Post Views: 63 Related Stories
CairoScene
05-03-2025
- Entertainment
- CairoScene
Cairo Book Market Soor El Azbakeya Participates in Abu Dhabi Book Fair
Egypt is the guest of honour at the Abu Dhabi Book Fair, which is celebrating Nobel Laureate Naguib Mahfouz's legacy. May 03, 2024 The 33rd edition of the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair is currently underway, running until May 5th, and this year's session is playing host to an exported exhibition from Cairo's famous historical book market Soor El Azbakeya. The bustling second-hand and vintage souq has been selling works of literature from all over the region, and the world, since 1907. 2024 marks the first year that the market has travelled to the Abu Dhabi Book Fair; no coincidence, seeing as Egypt is the guest of honour for this year's exhibition, which centres on the works of Naguib Mahfouz, who remains the only Arab writer to win a Nobel Prize for literature. The version of the market at the book fair echoes the design of the Cairo original, with the seven book shops participating to emulate the real Soor El Azbakeya displaying over 15,000 books and magazines. Amongst the oldest vintage pieces include the first issue of Cairo's Al Ahram newspaper, published in 1876, as well as some early editions of Mahfouz's most famous works.
