Egypt Rejected Israeli Request to Participate in Cairo Book Fair

(IsraelWire-12/28-09:15-IST) Egyptian Education Minister: I oppose cultural normalization with Israel.

The Egyptian Minister of Education and Culture, Farouk Hosni, yesterday rejected an Israeli request to participate in the international book fair slated to be held in Cairo beginning on January 28.

The Minister emphasized that the request was rejected because of the failure of the State of Israel to implement the peace process with the Arabs.

He noted that "I myself oppose any cultural normalization with Israel, and we will accept her willingly only once there is a just and comprehensive peace and after the implementation of all the agreements with all the Arab states. [translated by the Israel Government Press Office] (Article by Sheffi Gabbai, Ma'ariv, Dec. 23.98)