CAIRO, May 19 (MENA) - Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouli Monday emphasized the importance of benefiting from the sunken antiquities in Abu Qir Bay, Alexandria governorate, within the framework of the government’s efforts to support the tourism sector that is deemed one of the promising pillars of the state's economy.

The premier was addressing a meeting convened to discuss optimum ways to preserve and utilize the invaluable submerged artifacts in Abu Qir Bay, in the presence of Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathy, Alexandria Governor Ahmed Khaled, Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA) Secretary General Mohamed Ismail and a galaxy of officials of bodies concerned.

During the meeting, Madbouli highlighted the importance of making an inventory of the submerged artifacts and preparing a feasibility study on establishing an underwater museum with designated visitor routes.

He also suggested displaying the recovered submerged treasures in museums after their excavation.

The tourism minister highlighted diligent efforts of the Antiquities and Tourism Ministry and the SCA to preserve the sunken antiquities in Abu Qir Bay.

Meanwhile, the head of SCA reviewed the council’s collaborative work with partners and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to prepare a feasibility study on establishing an underwater museum.

During the meeting, the governor of Alexandria highlighted the opportunities for collaboration with international partners and active archaeological missions.

He reviewed a number of proposals to display the underwater antiquities in ways that would enhance the tourism sector and the city’s tourist attractions.

The governor added that some locations could be developed as diving sites to allow visitors to view the submerged treasures. (MENA)

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