The Embassy of the Arab Republic of Egypt in Washington D.C. celebrated the National Day of Egypt on July 11th. Our most prominent ceremony of the year was attended by several dignitaries including Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross, Secretary of Health and Human Services Alex Azar, Congressman Mark Meadows, and Congressmen Jeff Fortenberry and Dutch Ruppersberger co-chairs of the friends of Egypt caucus in the U.S. House of Representatives. Egypt’s Minister of Tourism Dr. Rania Al – Mashat was the keynote speaker, she delivered a speech highlighting her vision for ways to promote the Egyptian tourism sector. Victoria Coates Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for the Middle East at the National Security Council also delivered remarks emphasizing the importance of Egyptian – American relations, and the necessity of reinforcing ties of cooperation in the various fields, as well as the constant consultation between both countries on regional issues. Congressman Fortenberry also delivered remarks that touched upon the significance of Egypt as a reliable partner, and illustrated his passion and love for Egypt since his experience there as a student in the 1970s. Ambassador Yasser Reda addressed the audience with a touching speech that underscored the major milestones that have been achieved in bilateral relations in the last few years, the latest of which was the launch of Egypt Air’s Cairo – Washington D.C. route for the first time. Ambassador Reda also reflected on a four decade career in the foreign service with much appreciation and gratitude. Other distinguished guests included General Joseph Lengyel Chief of the National Guard Bureau, Assistant Secretary of State for Educational and Cultural Affairs Marie Royce, former chair of the House foreign affairs committee Ed Royce, and Dr. Mahmoud Mohieldin World Bank Group’s Senior Vice President for the 2030 Development Agenda, UN Relations, and Partnerships as well as representatives of the diplomatic community in the American capital. The National Day commemorates the July 23 revolution in 1952, which paved the road for Egypt’s independence from colonial rule, this special day is also a chance to celebrate the Egyptian – American community who spare no occasion to demonstrate their love for their home country. The embassy would like to thank all those who attended and shared with us a remarkable evening, as well as the diligent staff who organized a magnificent event. To another year of Egyptian – American friendship, and another year of glory and progress for our beloved country. Long Live Egypt.