The eighth edition of the El Gouna Film Festival (GFF) will coincide with the 80th anniversary of the United Nations, highlighting development issues through a partnership with the U.N. in Egypt, organisers announced at a press conference on Wednesday. Speaking at the event, Egypt's Minister of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation, Rania Al-Mashat, praised the festival for revitalizing tourism in the Red Sea region and noted that this year's edition is taking place as Egyptian tourism witnesses record-high levels. "Culture and the arts are a key driver for achieving development," Al-Mashat said, adding that this year's festival will focus on the issue of food as a central theme. "Food is not only a basic human need but also a matter of national security." The minister highlighted the deep, historic relationship between Egypt and the U.N., stating that the strategic collaboration between the U.N. in Egypt, the GFF, and the Egyptian government represents a "platform for promoting culture-based solutions for sustainable and economic development." Al-Mashat also reviewed the government's efforts to enhance cultural services in its 2025/2026 plan, which includes the establishment and development of 21 cultural palaces, six children's cultural centres, three museums, and the renovation of 15 theatres across the country. Elena Panova, the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Egypt, affirmed that the festival is a "powerful platform for connecting with people through stories that carry real meaning and values." "As the United Nations celebrates 80 years of promoting peace, human rights, and sustainable development, we are proud to stand side by side with El Gouna Film Festival, the Egyptian government, and our partners across sectors to inspire audiences, amplify voices, and celebrate resilience, creativity, and our shared humanity," Panova said. She affirmed the U.N.'s commitment to deepening its cooperation with the GFF and transforming it into a long-term partnership that annually highlights a key issue of importance to both Egypt and the United Nations. The press conference was also attended by the festival's founder, Naguib Sawiris; the founder of El Gouna City, Samih Sawiris; the festival's CEO, Mohamed Amer; its executive director, Amr Mansi; and its artistic director, Marianne Khoury.
