Egyptian-Canadian actor Mena Massoud has visited the Giza pyramid complex, one of the world's largest and most famous structures, expressing his pride in his Egyptian identity and for belonging to such an ancient culture. The program for his visit to Egypt also includes a number of other prominent tourist attractions. A statement by the Ministry of Emigration cited Massoud, the titular star of Disney's Aladdin, as saying that he considers Egypt the greatest country in the world and that “our role is to promote Egypt's tourist attractions.” Massoud was keen to take photos and videos of himself while visiting the ancient pyramids and the Great Sphinx in Giza and posting them on social media, the statement said. Massoud said that this is his third visit to the pyramid complex, and that he is keen on going there every time he visits Egypt. Massoud was accompanied by Minister of Emigration Nabila Makram and Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Khaled El-Enani. Makram welcomed the star's visit to the pyramids, and said that he is considered the first ambassador of the presidential initiative dubbed Etkallem Araby (Speak Arabic), which aims to solidify the Arab-Egyptian identity among Egyptians abroad. The minister also noted that Massoud has supported the initiative with a video, where he urges Egyptian youth abroad to speak Arabic so that they can preserve their Egyptian identity and culture. “We are proud of Egyptians abroad and are always happy for the successes they achieve, which hold Egypt's name high,” El-Enani said. The tourism minister also said that Massoud was keen to listen to a detailed explanation on the construction of the pyramids and the epigraphic “Dream Stele” erected between the front paws of the Sphinx.
