Actor Hussein Fahmy, president of the 46th Cairo International Film Festival, rejected a $1 million sponsorship offer from a private company, stressing that the festival is not for sale or transferable.
Hussein Fahmy stated that the festival is national in nature and a social responsibility, which prompted him to reject the $1 million sponsorship offer.
During a media meeting with journalists in preparation for the new edition of the Cairo International Film Festival, which begins on November 12, Fahmy announced his rejection of the generous financial offer, explaining that his decision aims to preserve the festival's identity and independence. He said, "Because it is a state festival, it cannot be traded for the temptations of money or million-dollar offers."
The Cairo International Film Festival organizers confirmed that sponsorship follows strict criteria to preserve the festival's identity and value. Hussein Fahmy indicated that he rejected a sponsorship offer exceeding $1 million because it did not align with the festival's policy, which prioritizes national companies.
Hussein Fahmy explained that the support of national brands to sponsor the festival represents a conscious bias toward Egyptian products and reflects a genuine commitment to supporting the local economy. He emphasized that the festival is run according to a vision that respects quality and credibility.
Fahmy emphasized the presence of Palestine at the heart of the festival, asserting that the closing film "The Voice of Hind Ragab" "will not be the last cry," but rather that there will be other events that will promote the Palestinian cause artistically and humanely.
"To preserve the identity of the Cairo Film Festival," Hussein Fahmy turned down a million-dollar offer.
