Latest news with #AbuZeid
Al-Ahram Weekly
18 hours ago
- Business
- Al-Ahram Weekly
Egypt, EU to host landmark summit before year's end: Cairo Ambassador to Brussels - Foreign Affairs
Egypt and the European Union (EU) are preparing for a landmark summit before the end of 2025, the first under their newly signed Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, Egypt's ambassador to Brussels, Ahmed Abu Zeid, said this week. The high-level meeting, he told Egyptian journalists in the Belgian capital, is expected to consolidate political and economic cooperation, unlock billions in European support, and affirm Egypt's stabilizing role in the region. Abu Zeid stated that the summit will help realign mutual priorities amid global instability and inject new momentum into Egypt-EU ties, a long-standing relationship rooted in the 2004 Association Agreement and significantly elevated in 2023 when Egypt became the first Middle East and North Africa (MENA) country to sign a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with the bloc. €5 billion package tied to IMF-backed reforms A cornerstone of the new partnership is a five billion euro EU financial package, pledged to support Egypt's economy amid global shocks, including the war in Ukraine, disruptions to Red Sea shipping, and soaring food and energy prices. The first billion euros were disbursed in 2024 as development and investment guarantees. The remaining four billion euros, approved by the European Parliament and Council in June, will be disbursed in phases starting later this year, conditional on the progress of economic reforms agreed with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Abu Zeid described the negotiations with EU institutions as 'long and arduous,' given the differing political agendas within the Commission, Council, and Parliament. But he said the disbursements are now firmly linked to Egypt's reform trajectory. 'Everyone must be completely comfortable that the economic reform path is on track, and that there's a comprehensive economic and financial reform programme in place,' he said. Strategic, not conditional—Egypt's messaging to Brussels While reiterating Egypt's openness to reform, Abu Zeid pushed back against suggestions of political conditionality. 'There are no conditions, and we have not observed any attempts to impose conditions,' he said. 'These are measures undertaken by the state for the benefit of its people. The state knows its responsibility towards its citizens and its accountability before parliament.,' he added, underscoring that economic and political reform is a national process. He noted that Egypt is fully aware that its partners are closely following this path, and therefore, 'we are not hiding anything.' Abu Zeid said Cairo is in near-daily contact with MEPs and parliamentary blocs to clarify Egypt's regional role, particularly its involvement in efforts to mediate wars and conflicts in Gaza, Sudan, Syria, and elsewhere. Over the past nine months, Egypt has hosted several European delegations—including MEPs, rapporteurs, and major bloc representatives—who met with officials, civil society, and human rights institutions to deepen their understanding of Egypt's political, economic, and social context and its challenges. Europe's interests in a stable southern Mediterranean Abu Zeid said the EU's strategic interest in Egypt is closely tied to migration management, energy cooperation, and regional security. The partnership is also framed within broader EU initiatives in the southern Mediterranean—such as the Union for the Mediterranean and the New Mediterranean Charter—focused on green transformation, labour mobility, youth, and infrastructure. He emphasized that there is strong awareness in Brussels that the stability of the southern Mediterranean is tied to the Middle East, which has significant implications in areas such as irregular migration and security threats. Abu Zeid said the MENA region presents clear investment opportunities, including in education, manufacturing, and supply chains. Egypt, he added, is viewed not only as a key regional strategic and security partner but also as a source of skilled labour, logistical advantage, and cultural capital. Tensions over Gaza, Israel, and EU fragmentation On the Israeli war on Gaza, Abu Zeid welcomed what he described as the EU's 'positive' emphasis on international and humanitarian law. However, he acknowledged internal divisions within the bloc that make it challenging to reach unified positions on Israel and the Palestinian issue. 'There is a review underway of EU-Israel relations under the Association Agreement, especially after some member states recognized that Israel is violating Article 2 on human rights,' he said. Egypt, he added, is pressing both bilaterally and through EU institutions for a firmer stance, including potential sanctions against Israeli extremists and settlers, in addition to a suspension of engagement. 'The daily human rights violations in Gaza must not be met with statements alone—they require concrete action,' he said, noting that 12 EU member states have already recognized Palestine, and others may follow. Discussions are also ongoing about a Gaza reconstruction and early recovery conference, which Egypt sees as a potential entry point for a ceasefire and longer-term political resolution. Abu Zeid said the EU is 'fully aware' that the two-state solution needs to move from rhetoric to policy, through an initiative led by the EU and its international partners. Culture, education, and Europe's shifting priorities Abu Zeid also stressed the importance of cultural diplomacy, particularly in Egypt's bilateral relations with Belgium, Luxembourg, and EU institutions. He cited significant efforts to spotlight Egypt's heritage, such as through cultural troupes and exhibitions linked to the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM). 'Five percent of our diplomatic goals are achieved automatically through cultural engagement,' he said. 'It signals to the other party that this is a country with history, civilization, and standing.' Education remains a priority area, with efforts to expand access to European programmes such as Erasmus+, Horizon Europe, and Talent Skills, while also improving recognition of Egyptian degrees in Europe. The Horizon Europe research agreement has been initialled, with a final signing expected by the end of the year. Egypt is also pushing to open more branches of European universities and launch joint degree programs with EU partners. 'Human capital is one of the six pillars of the strategic partnership between Egypt and the EU—and the key to long-term cooperation,' he said. Defence spending, NATO dialogue, and geopolitical constraints Abu Zeid warned, however, that rising global militarization is shifting European priorities. 'We are seeing increasing defence and security budgets, which are coming at the expense of soft power—education, culture, and development,' he said. Escalating geopolitical crises have driven the EU to adopt a new defence and security strategy and pushed NATO to raise its spending ceiling to five percent of national income, further shifting priorities across the continent. The EU and NATO have both launched new regional frameworks—the Mediterranean Charter and NATO's Southern Dialogue, respectively—designed to re-engage southern neighbours on issues ranging from terrorism and cross-border crime to maritime security and migration. Egypt is a member of NATO's Mediterranean Dialogue Group and has opted for 'balance' in its defence partnerships, avoiding entanglement in rival blocs. Cairo also maintains advanced defence relations with European countries and engages in political dialogue at multiple levels. Abu Zeid noted that all topics are open for discussion, and that higher-level engagement—whether through the Participation Council or at the summit level—often creates space for new areas of cooperation. Looking ahead: trade, investment, and the summit As part of growing economic ties, Abu Zeid noted that Belgium's foreign and trade minister visited Cairo in May and is expected to return early next year with a delegation of investors. He pointed to Egypt's proximity to European markets, skilled labour force, and economic incentives as key advantages. With Europe facing resource shortages and labour gaps due to diverted defence spending, 'this presents an opportunity for Egypt,' he said. The summit, scheduled before the end of the year, is expected to cap months of technical, political, and financial coordination—and, Abu Zeid hopes, usher in a new era of cooperation shaped by 'shared responsibility and mutual benefit.' Follow us on: Facebook Instagram Whatsapp Short link:
See - Sada Elbalad
4 days ago
- Politics
- See - Sada Elbalad
Exclusive Interview: Ambassador Abu Zeid Discusses Egypt-Belgium Strategic Ties, EU Diplomacy
By Mohamed Wadie, Editor-in-Chief, SEE News In an exclusive and in-depth conversation, Egypt's Ambassador to Belgium, Ahmed Abu Zeid, spoke with SEE News Editor-in-Chief Mohamed Wadie about the rapidly evolving landscape of Egyptian-European relations. The interview delved into Egypt's expanding role in regional stability, its balanced diplomacy, strategic investment outlook, soft power ambitions, and continued engagement with its citizens abroad. Egypt and the European Union: A Strategic Partnership Rooted in Mutual Respect Ambassador Abu Zeid began by affirming that Egypt's relationship with the European Union is founded on mutual respect, common interests, and deep political engagement. He stressed that the partnership goes beyond traditional diplomacy and includes substantial cooperation on human rights, political reform, investment, and cultural exchange. Egypt continues to engage with EU institutions and member states to present an accurate, transparent image of its progress and challenges. Egypt, he said, actively welcomes delegations from the European Parliament and civil society groups to visit and engage with Egyptian institutions. This openness reflects Egypt's commitment to institutional reform and its belief that dialogue—not conditionality—is the foundation for genuine, respectful partnerships. While Europe remains a critical partner, the ambassador emphasized that Egypt's national policies, particularly on human rights and governance, are driven by domestic priorities and a strong sense of sovereignty. Reform from Within, Not Imposed from Outside Addressing the issue of political and economic reforms, Ambassador Abu Zeid underlined that these are nationally driven efforts intended to improve the lives of Egyptians—not reforms shaped by external demands. He noted that political cooperation with the EU includes regular dialogue, visits by political figures, and a shared focus on institutional development. These discussions, however, are conducted within a framework of mutual understanding, not pressure. He further emphasized that Egypt continues to evolve as a key player in regional diplomacy, particularly across the Southern Mediterranean. The European Union, he noted, has increasingly recognized the importance of a secure, stable Egypt to the overall security of Europe. From energy cooperation to migration, Egypt is at the forefront of practical, solution-oriented diplomacy. Egypt's Role in the Gaza Crisis and Regional Stability Turning to the Gaza crisis, Ambassador Abu Zeid acknowledged the EU's public support for international humanitarian law and the Palestinian cause. However, he pointed out the difficulty of achieving unified EU positions due to differing policies among member states. Egypt has encouraged the European Union to adopt a firmer, more coordinated response to the crisis, especially in terms of humanitarian aid access and reconstruction. Egypt's leadership has been pivotal in brokering ceasefire talks and facilitating humanitarian corridors. The ambassador reiterated Cairo's call for an immediate ceasefire and reiterated Egypt's commitment to the two-state solution as the only viable path to lasting peace. He called on Europe to invest more effort in backing political solutions and holding Israel accountable to international norms. Soft Power and Egypt's Civilizational Image A major focus of the interview was Egypt's soft power—particularly the cultural component of its foreign policy. Ambassador Abu Zeid passionately discussed how Egypt uses its rich history and civilization as tools of diplomacy. Cultural diplomacy, he argued, is often more effective than political rhetoric in bridging understanding between nations. Egypt's Embassy in Brussels frequently organizes film screenings, cultural exhibitions, and seminars that showcase Egypt's heritage. Plans are also underway to host a high-profile cultural celebration in Brussels in connection with the opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum. According to the ambassador, nearly half of the success of diplomacy lies in cultural familiarity. By increasing awareness and appreciation of Egypt's civilizational legacy, European partners engage more deeply and positively with Egyptian foreign policy. Education and Research as Pillars of Cooperation Ambassador Abu Zeid highlighted Egypt's cooperation with the EU in educational and scientific fields. Through programs like Erasmus Plus and Efraison, Egyptian students and researchers participate in joint academic projects with European institutions. He stressed the importance of continued support for these initiatives, despite growing financial pressures in Europe due to increased defense budgets. There are also ongoing efforts to ensure the recognition of Egyptian degrees across Europe and to create pathways for Egyptian researchers to access European funding networks. This focus on human capital development, he said, is a cornerstone of Egypt's long-term cooperation with the EU. Egypt's Security Partnerships and NATO Engagement Egypt's role in regional and international security was another major theme. Ambassador Abu Zeid described Egypt's participation in the Mediterranean Dialogue—a NATO initiative including several southern Mediterranean countries—as a testament to its commitment to collective security. Cooperation in maritime security, counterterrorism, and irregular migration continues to strengthen. He emphasized that Egypt maintains a balanced and independent foreign policy. Rather than aligning with specific blocs or alliances, Egypt engages with all global partners on equal terms. This non-aligned approach, he noted, is widely respected both in Brussels and at NATO headquarters. Bilateral defense relations with countries like France, Germany, and Italy are particularly robust, and the ambassador confirmed that discussions on security and defense continue at the highest levels through platforms like the EU-Egypt Partnership Council and bilateral summits. Supporting Egyptians Abroad and Election Preparation Ambassador Abu Zeid also spoke about the importance of Egypt's diplomatic missions in supporting its communities abroad. In Belgium, the embassy has prioritized regular communication with Egyptian citizens, addressing their needs, offering services, and involving them in national cultural and political life. Regarding elections, the ambassador confirmed that preparations are well underway for the upcoming voting rounds scheduled for August 1–2 and August 25–26. The embassy has taken measures to ensure smooth, safe, and accessible voting for Egyptians living in Belgium, including full logistical support and community outreach. Security Challenges and Protecting Diplomatic Missions In light of recent sabotage threats targeting Egyptian missions abroad, Ambassador Abu Zeid affirmed that host countries have responded swiftly to ensure embassy security. Any attempts to disrupt diplomatic activity or target embassy property are being addressed with the full cooperation of Belgian authorities. Egypt remains vigilant in protecting its overseas missions and continues to coordinate closely with all relevant security bodies. Coordinating Egyptian Communities Across Europe The interview concluded with a discussion on the growing unity among Egyptian communities across Europe. Initiatives like the Union of Egyptian Entities in Europe aim to coordinate efforts, strengthen communication among diaspora groups, and advocate for the interests of Egyptian nationals in Europe. The ambassador views this as a crucial component of Egypt's foreign policy: engaging its citizens abroad as active participants in the country's diplomatic and national journey. Conclusion: A Comprehensive Diplomatic Vision Ambassador Ahmed Abu Zeid's conversation with SEE News presents a multifaceted view of Egyptian diplomacy—one that integrates economic cooperation, cultural engagement, security dialogue, and citizen outreach. Egypt's relationship with Europe is not only expanding but becoming more strategic, grounded in a clear sense of national interest and a vision of mutual prosperity. read more 2 Most Inspirational Green Projects in Egypt AEW Dynamite, WWE NXT to Strive over Viewership Tonight Egypt Marks 70th Anniv. of 2011 Revolution, National Police Day In Depth: WWE NXT Halloween Havoc In Depth: AEW Dynamite, WWE NXT Tuesday Viewership Strive Videos & Features WATCH: Egyptians Break Ramadan Fasts in Matariya Videos & Features GrEEk Campus Hosts Jobzella Fifth Career Fair Videos & Features 3 Iconic Ramadan Songs of All Times Videos & Features Top 4 Destinations to Visit in Upper Egypt News Israeli-Linked Hadassah Clinic in Moscow Treats Wounded Iranian IRGC Fighters Arts & Culture "Jurassic World Rebirth" Gets Streaming Date News China Launches Largest Ever Aircraft Carrier Videos & Features Tragedy Overshadows MC Alger Championship Celebration: One Fan Dead, 11 Injured After Stadium Fall Lifestyle Get to Know 2025 Eid Al Adha Prayer Times in Egypt Arts & Culture South Korean Actress Kang Seo-ha Dies at 31 after Cancer Battle Business Egyptian Pound Undervalued by 30%, Says Goldman Sachs Sports Get to Know 2025 WWE Evolution Results News "Tensions Escalate: Iran Probes Allegations of Indian Tech Collaboration with Israeli Intelligence" Arts & Culture Hawass Foundation Launches 1st Course to Teach Ancient Egyptian Language
See - Sada Elbalad
4 days ago
- Business
- See - Sada Elbalad
Amb. Abu Zeid Affirms: Egyptian–Belgian Relations… A Gateway to Strategic Investment, Global Co-op
Mohamed Wadie Ambassador Ahmed Abu Zeid, Egypt's Ambassador to Belgium, has confirmed that Egyptian–Belgian relations are entering a new era of strategic depth and opportunity, particularly in the fields of green energy, modern technology, and trade cooperation. In a time of complex global realignments, Egypt is positioning itself as a stable and attractive partner for European investors and policymakers alike. In an interview with Mohamed Wadie, the Editor-in-Chief of SEE News, Ambassador Abu Zeid underlined that Belgian investments in Egypt are experiencing significant growth, notably marked by a landmark €4 billion agreement in the renewable energy and green hydrogen sectors, signed during a recent investment forum. These investments reflect a deepening economic partnership that is further supported by Belgium's strong presence in sectors such as infrastructure, advanced manufacturing, and technological innovation. The Ambassador noted that Belgian universities are also home to a growing number of Egyptian students in specialized academic programs, adding a vibrant educational dimension to the bilateral relationship. Moreover, Luxembourg—a close partner in the Benelux region—has become an important player in Egypt's financial services sector, contributing to expanding trade and capital flow between the two sides. According to Abu Zeid, Egypt offers European markets a unique blend of advantages: Strategic geographical proximity to Europe A skilled and competitively priced workforce Modern logistics and infrastructure hubs, including the Suez Canal Economic Zone A stable macroeconomic environment and strong government incentives for foreign investment He emphasized that amid growing challenges across Europe—such as resource shortages and labor gaps—Egypt is emerging as a natural extension of European value chains, capable of providing scalable solutions in energy, supply chains, and production. On Egypt's relationship with the European Union, Ambassador Abu Zeid explained that the EU is actively working to diversify its partnerships globally, as seen in recent diplomatic missions to China, Japan, and South Africa. Egypt, he stressed, was among the first countries in the region to establish a comprehensive strategic partnership with the EU, giving it a central role in Europe's policy toward both the Middle East and Africa. Egypt's role, he said, goes beyond economic alignment. It serves as a pillar of regional stability, offering credible diplomatic channels and acting as a reliable partner in energy transition, migration policy, and counterterrorism cooperation. Turning to Egypt's engagement with NATO, Abu Zeid spoke about Egypt's participation in the Mediterranean Dialogue, a cooperative framework that includes seven countries from the southern Mediterranean. Egypt works closely with NATO on capacity building in maritime security, counterterrorism, and irregular migration control. Importantly, he emphasized Egypt's steadfast commitment to balanced diplomacy, steering clear of bloc-based rivalries. 'Egypt does not align with polarized alliances. Instead, we maintain strategic, respectful, and independent relationships with all global powers,' he stated. This non-aligned yet cooperative stance, he added, is widely respected within NATO and among European partners. On the investment front, Belgium currently ranks as Egypt's fifth-largest European investor, with approximately $1.4 billion in capital concentrated in infrastructure, renewable energy, and industrial development. The outlook for 2025 points to further Belgian investments, particularly in automotive manufacturing, agricultural technologies, and clean energy solutions. Ambassador Abu Zeid's message is clear: Egypt is not only open for business — it is ready for partnership. As the global economic map is redrawn, Egypt's combination of stability, economic ambition, and diplomatic clarity makes it a key regional player and a trusted bridge between Europe, Africa, and the Arab world. read more 2 Most Inspirational Green Projects in Egypt AEW Dynamite, WWE NXT to Strive over Viewership Tonight Egypt Marks 70th Anniv. of 2011 Revolution, National Police Day In Depth: WWE NXT Halloween Havoc In Depth: AEW Dynamite, WWE NXT Tuesday Viewership Strive Videos & Features WATCH: Egyptians Break Ramadan Fasts in Matariya Videos & Features GrEEk Campus Hosts Jobzella Fifth Career Fair Videos & Features 3 Iconic Ramadan Songs of All Times Videos & Features Top 4 Destinations to Visit in Upper Egypt News Israeli-Linked Hadassah Clinic in Moscow Treats Wounded Iranian IRGC Fighters Arts & Culture "Jurassic World Rebirth" Gets Streaming Date News China Launches Largest Ever Aircraft Carrier Videos & Features Tragedy Overshadows MC Alger Championship Celebration: One Fan Dead, 11 Injured After Stadium Fall Lifestyle Get to Know 2025 Eid Al Adha Prayer Times in Egypt Arts & Culture South Korean Actress Kang Seo-ha Dies at 31 after Cancer Battle Business Egyptian Pound Undervalued by 30%, Says Goldman Sachs Sports Get to Know 2025 WWE Evolution Results News "Tensions Escalate: Iran Probes Allegations of Indian Tech Collaboration with Israeli Intelligence" Arts & Culture Hawass Foundation Launches 1st Course to Teach Ancient Egyptian Language
See - Sada Elbalad
4 days ago
- Politics
- See - Sada Elbalad
Interview with Ambassador Ahmed Abu Zeid... Egypt & EU: Strategic Partnership Built on Mutual Respect
Interview by Mohamed Wadie This interview with Ambassador Ahmed Abu Zeid, Egypt's ambassador to Brussels, unveils the robust strategic relationship between Egypt and the European Union. It covers the path of cooperation across multiple fields, including human rights, political reforms, Egypt's regional role, and Egypt's stance on the current developments in the Gaza Strip. The discussion highlights Egypt's efforts to present a clear, transparent picture of its national challenges and achievements, aiming to strengthen the partnership with the EU based on understanding and mutual respect. Egypt's Position on Human Rights and National Efforts Ambassador Abu Zeid emphasized that Egypt places human rights at the core of its national strategy. The country is working through institutional efforts and comprehensive monitoring, regularly receiving diverse delegations from the European Parliament and civil society to enhance transparency and provide insights into the political and social realities of the state. This reflects Egypt's national responsibility towards its citizens, done without any conditions imposed by its European partners. Political Reforms and Their Relation to EU Partnership The ambassador clarified that Egypt views political and economic reforms as internal national processes undertaken for the benefit of its people, not as outcomes of external conditions. He stressed that open cooperation exists with the EU through frequent visits by political delegations closely observing these reforms, aiming to enhance institutional and political cooperation within a comprehensive strategic partnership. Egypt's Regional Role as an Influential Partner in the Southern Mediterranean Ambassador Abu Zeid affirmed the EU's recognition of the intrinsic link between the security and stability of both the southern and northern Mediterranean regions. Egypt plays a pivotal role as a security and strategic partner, offering significant investment opportunities, a skilled workforce, and supply chains that support the European economy. Cooperation extends across education, green transition, and migration, within a multi-level partnership that fosters integration and collaboration. Egypt's Stance on the Gaza Crisis and Cooperation with the EU The ambassador expressed appreciation for the EU's supportive position on the Palestinian cause and respect for international humanitarian law but noted challenges stemming from differing member state positions within the EU. Egypt is actively encouraging a more effective European stance on the crisis by backing political solutions, overseeing humanitarian aid, and participating in Gaza's reconstruction and recovery efforts. He emphasized the importance of a ceasefire and resolving the Palestinian issue through the two-state solution initiative supported by the EU. Ambassador Ahmed Abu Zeid highlighted how both sides of the Egyptian-European partnership embrace constructive dialogue rooted in mutual cooperation and a deep understanding of each other's political and social specificities, within the framework of national interest and shared stakes in a vital region. read more Gold prices rise, 21 Karat at EGP 3685 NATO's Role in Israeli-Palestinian Conflict US Expresses 'Strong Opposition' to New Turkish Military Operation in Syria Shoukry Meets Director-General of FAO Lavrov: confrontation bet. nuclear powers must be avoided News Iran Summons French Ambassador over Foreign Minister Remarks News Aboul Gheit Condemns Israeli Escalation in West Bank News Greek PM: Athens Plays Key Role in Improving Energy Security in Region News One Person Injured in Explosion at Ukrainian Embassy in Madrid News Israeli-Linked Hadassah Clinic in Moscow Treats Wounded Iranian IRGC Fighters Arts & Culture "Jurassic World Rebirth" Gets Streaming Date News China Launches Largest Ever Aircraft Carrier Videos & Features Tragedy Overshadows MC Alger Championship Celebration: One Fan Dead, 11 Injured After Stadium Fall Lifestyle Get to Know 2025 Eid Al Adha Prayer Times in Egypt Arts & Culture South Korean Actress Kang Seo-ha Dies at 31 after Cancer Battle Business Egyptian Pound Undervalued by 30%, Says Goldman Sachs Sports Get to Know 2025 WWE Evolution Results News "Tensions Escalate: Iran Probes Allegations of Indian Tech Collaboration with Israeli Intelligence" Arts & Culture Hawass Foundation Launches 1st Course to Teach Ancient Egyptian Language
Egypt Independent
12-07-2025
- Politics
- Egypt Independent
Egypt recovers two smuggled artifacts from Belgium
Egypt's Ambassador to Belgium Ahmed Abu Zeid has received two smuggled artifacts in an official ceremony held at the Art and History Museum in Brussels. The move comes in light of the existing cooperation and coordination between the Egyptian Embassy in Brussels and the Belgian Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Economy, as well as the federal prosecutor's office of Belgium, which resulted in recovering two ancient Egyptian items, according to a statement released by the Foreign Ministry on Friday 11/7/2025. The first artifact is a gilded wooden sarcophagus from the Ptolemaic era, while the other ancient piece is a beard of a wooden statue dating back to the ancient Egyptian civilization. Speaking at the ceremony, Abu Zeid said that Egypt attaches great importance to restoring all smuggled artifacts in accordance with the 1970 UNESCO Convention, extending thanks to Belgium's authorities for their cooperation in recovering the two relics. The ambassador stated that he looks forward to fostering collaboration with the Belgian government in retrieving Egyptian antiquities and raising awareness about the significance of countering the illicit trafficking of cultural property, which represents the common human heritage of the world.
