Australia handed over 17 rare Egyptian antiquities on Thursday, spanning different periods of ancient Egyptian history, in a move highlighting growing cultural cooperation between the two countries. The handover took place during a meeting between Egypt's Deputy Foreign Minister Nabil Habashi, accompanied by Ambassador Hani Nagi, and Australia's Minister for Home Affairs, Immigration, Arts, and Cybersecurity, Tony Burke, in Canberra. The ceremony included the signing of documents for the repatriation of the artefacts, which had been held by a private company and were subject to a legal case in Australian courts since 2019. The High Court of Australia ruled on 3 Sept., 2025, for their return. Egyptian and Australian officials examine the 17 rare Egyptian antiquities after the handover ceremony in Canberra on Thursday, 27 November, 2025 (Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Photo)
Habashi welcomed the decision, noting it coincides with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Egypt and Australia and underscores mutual trust and respect. He said the return, timed with the official opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), reflects Australia's commitment to cultural cooperation, combating antiquities smuggling, and preserving shared human heritage. The repatriation follows coordinated efforts by the Egyptian Embassy in Canberra, the Consulate General in Sydney, and the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, demonstrating close bilateral cooperation to safeguard cultural property and prevent illicit trade in antiquities. Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English
