Abuja: President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi of Egypt has expressed his support for the Egyptian candidate for UNESCO, Khaled El-Enany, emphasizing that this endorsement will promote African unity and solidarity in the international community. In a letter delivered by Mohamed Fouad, the Egyptian ambassador, Al-Sisi highlighted the diplomatic significance of this move, which comes just weeks before the election for UNESCO’s next Director-General.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, El-Enany, who previously served as Egypt’s Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, announced his candidacy in April 2023. His bid received formal endorsement from the African Union in February 2024, a position that has been consistently supported during successive African Union sessions in 2024 and 2025. El-Enany remains the only candidate with pan-African backing, marking him as the sole representative accepted by the continent.
Al-Sisi noted that this robust support base has opened avenues for broader international backing, highlighting El-Enany’s ability to unite various factions. In an election influenced by intricate diplomatic considerations, the Egyptian candidate is emerging as a consensus-building option.
El-Enany has conducted extensive diplomatic outreach since launching his campaign, visiting over 60 countries and engaging with political leaders, academics, youth, and civil society representatives. His diplomatic efforts have focused on a platform aligned with UNESCO member states’ priorities, emphasizing education, cultural exchange, and sustainable development through science and research.
El-Enany’s proposals include enhancing UNESCO’s presence in Africa, supporting development programs, and investing in local capacity-building. He is recognized as a respected Egyptologist and professor since 1993, with experience as a former minister managing a large administration. His work in heritage preservation, museum modernization, and cultural tourism has garnered international acclaim and strengthened his candidacy.
Backed by the African Union, the Arab League, and a cross-regional coalition of states, El-Enany’s candidacy has gained traction beyond its initial continental support. NAN reports that Al-Sisi’s message reaffirms El-Enany’s acceptance as the October 6 vote approaches, presenting him as a candidate of global consensus who is attuned to the future direction of UNESCO.