Egyptian-Swiss Archaeological Forum in Cairo Explores Restoration Technologies and Combating Illicit Antiquities Trafficking

Experts from the Universities of Basel, Geneva and Zurich join Egyptian archaeological institutions to discuss excavation findings, scientific documentation and heritage conservation, with UNESCO participating in discussions on cultural property protection and restitution.

The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC) in Fustat, Cairo, hosted the Egyptian-Swiss Archaeological Forum on November 8, 2026, bringing together archaeologists, conservation specialists and representatives of international academic institutions.

The forum focused on the latest findings from joint archaeological research, advances in heritage preservation and efforts to combat the illicit trafficking of cultural property.

Organised in cooperation with the Swiss Embassy in Cairo and Egypt's Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, represented by the Supreme Council of Antiquities, the event formed part of ongoing scientific collaboration between Egypt and Switzerland.

The first session presented recent findings from Swiss archaeological missions working in Egypt, with contributions from specialists affiliated with the Universities of Basel and Geneva and the Swiss Institute for Architectural and Archaeological Research on Ancient Egypt.

Discussions explored opportunities to expand joint research, strengthen knowledge exchange and involve young Egyptian researchers in international archaeological projects.

The second session, dedicated to science, conservation and innovation in heritage protection, examined modern technologies for preserving archaeological collections and historic sites, alongside the evolving role of museums as research institutions and centres for community engagement.

Participants included specialists from the University of Zurich and the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, as well as representatives of the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir, the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization and the Grand Egyptian Museum.

The forum featured a dedicated discussion on international cooperation to protect cultural heritage and combat the illicit trade in antiquities.

Participants included Paul Coustère, UNESCO's representative for Egypt and Sudan, and Dr. Shaaban Abdel Gawad, Director General of the General Administration for Repatriated Antiquities at Egypt's Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities.

The discussions focused on strengthening cooperation between countries to prevent trafficking and facilitate the return of cultural property unlawfully removed from its countries of origin.

However, the forum's official announcement did not report any new restitution agreement or the recovery of specific archaeological objects during the event.

Dr. Hisham El-Leithy, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, emphasised the importance of international cooperation in advancing excavation, documentation and restoration techniques while developing the skills of archaeological professionals.

Swiss Ambassador Andreas Baum also highlighted the role of cultural cooperation in promoting knowledge exchange and strengthening relations between the two countries.

Following the sessions, participants explored a virtual reality experience dedicated to King Tutankhamun and toured the exhibition galleries of the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization.

The forum's tourism significance lies in the connection between archaeological research, conservation and the preservation of the historic sites and collections that form a central part of Egypt's cultural tourism experience.

Advances in documentation and conservation, together with international efforts to combat illicit antiquities trafficking, help safeguard the authenticity and long-term accessibility of cultural heritage.

However, the forum did not announce the opening of new archaeological sites, the introduction of new visitor services or measurable economic outcomes. Its primary contribution remains scientific and professional, supporting international cooperation in the protection and preservation of cultural heritage.