As part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen cinematic cooperation with countries worldwide, the Cairo International Film Festival (CIFF) took part in the « Belt and Road » Week, held in Shanghai, China, from June 18 to 21, within the framework of the 27th Shanghai International Film Festival.
This marks the seventh consecutive year that CIFF participates in the Belt and Road Film Festival Alliance, an initiative launched by the Shanghai International Film Festival in 2018. The alliance currently brings together over 55 film institutions and festivals from 48 countries, including Egypt, China, Portugal, Chile, Colombia, Indonesia, Hungary, the Netherlands, and Mongolia.
Representing CIFF at the event was film critic Mohamed Tarek, the Festival’s Artistic Director, who participated in the alliance’s official meetings. The discussions focused on mechanisms to enhance cooperation between member festivals, promote the exchange of films, and organize cross-border cultural and cinematic events. These efforts aim to increase the international visibility of Arab cinema and create new opportunities for filmmakers from alliance member states.
Commenting on the participation, Mohamed Tarek said:
« The Cairo International Film Festival’s involvement in the Belt and Road Week is an essential part of our strategy to open new markets for Egyptian and Arab cinema and to build stronger ties with major international festivals. Our meetings with the Shanghai International Film Festival management led to tangible steps toward enhancing cooperation, including facilitating the participation of Chinese films and special screenings at CIFF, as well as supporting Arab films’ access to Asian markets, particularly China, which represents a promising and dynamic opportunity for Arab cinema. »
The Belt and Road Week witnessed the participation of over 40 filmmakers and producers from more than 20 countries, along with a series of specialized forums and professional sessions focused on developing the film industry, exchanging expertise, and strengthening cultural integration among alliance members.
It is worth noting that the Cairo International Film Festival, founded in 1976, is one of the oldest and most prestigious film festivals in the Arab world and Africa. It remains the only festival in the region accredited as a Category « A » festival by the International Federation of Film Producers Associations (FIAPF). CIFF continues to serve as a prominent platform for showcasing outstanding cinematic works from around the globe and fostering cultural dialogue between nations.
