Renowned Egyptian actor Hussein Fahmy, President of the Cairo International Film Festival, was warmly received in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, as he kicked off a packed first day at the second Golden Panda Awards, organized by the China Federation of Literary and Art Circles and the Sichuan Provincial Government.
The organizing committee welcomed Fahmy with special honors in recognition of his stature and his role in supporting cultural dialogue between Egypt and China. He also gave an extended interview to Chengdu Television, in which he spoke about the importance of cinematic exchange between the two countries and the international standing of Cairo International Film Festival. The committee affirmed that his presence enriches the event and reflects the depth of cultural relations between Cairo and Beijing, praising the role of Egyptian cinema in strengthening bridges of global creative dialogue.
In his opening speech, Fahmy said:
“I am very happy to be here, coming from Egypt as President of the Cairo International Film Festival. It is a pleasure to be in this beautiful place, among wonderful people from around the world, attending a celebration of cinema—the fascinating world of moving images that has connected us for many years, where we share diverse cultures and remain captivated by the magic of film and the art of cinema itself.”
Cairo festival president added:
“It is a great honor to have been among the first to sign a cooperation protocol with the Shanghai International Film Festival many years ago. We continue to collaborate with the Shanghai festival, exchanging talents and knowledge every year, as well as with the Beijing International Film Festival, with which I also signed an agreement and protocol years ago. I am delighted to be here today and look forward to a new agreement and another protocol with this remarkable organization.”
During his speech, actor Hussein Fahmy announced that a Chinese artist will join the jury of the official competition at the upcoming Cairo International Film Festival, set for November 12–21.
Fahmy’s participation highlights the growing cooperation between the Cairo International Film Festival and its Chinese counterparts. Earlier this year, Cairo joined the Belt and Road Film Week during the 27th Shanghai International Film Festival, a key step in strengthening cultural and cinematic ties between the two nations. The Cairo festival is also preparing to host an official Shanghai delegation at its next edition, underscoring both sides’ commitment to expanding cooperation and industry exchange.
Founded in 1976, the Cairo International Film Festival is one of the oldest and most prestigious festivals in the Arab world and Africa. It holds the FIAPF’s top Category A accreditation and remains the only Arab and African festival with this recognition. The festival has become a leading platform for world cinema and a vital bridge between East and West.
Launched in 2023, the Golden Panda Awards are held biennially in Chengdu and have quickly become one of the most prominent international awards dedicated to fostering cultural and human-value exchange among nations through cinema and the visual arts.
