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Enan Galaly has worked his way up from the very bottom
of the hospitality industry to becoming the head of Helnan International
Hotels. Mr Galaly has an international reputation as a champion of
intercultural understanding, hence his interest in and support of
the work being done by Drs Cornelis Hulsman to foster and encourage
greater dialogue between Arab-West and Muslim-non Muslim people, organisations,
communities and countries. |
| The picture on the left shows Enan Galaly after being invested
as a "Knight of Dannebrog", one of the highest honors
in Denmark, by Her Majesty Queen Margrette II of Denmark. |
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| Finding Refuge In Egypt |
Egypt is the country I am proud of; with the various civilizations
it has hosted, such as Pharaonic, Coptic, Greek, Roman, Turkish and
Arabic cultures. These all influenced the country, its history, and
the Egyptians themselves. Even in recent history, different cultures
had an impact on this country - the French, English, Italians and
Germans lived on the land and brought with them diversity that added
to its cultural richness. Living in an era witnessing renewal of the
dialogue of civilizations, I feel respect and appreciation for all
these different human cultures. I value these civilizations with their
different religions; namely, Judaism, Christianity and Islam which
mention the Holy Family. In the Holy Bible, one reads: "Blessed
be Egypt My people." [Isaiah 19]. The Holy Qur'an mentions: "Such
was Jesus, son of Mary: this is a statement of the truth concerning
which they doubt." [Sura Mary: 34].
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I was impressed by the efforts of the Dutch researcher Drs. Cornelis
Hulsman, who lives in Egypt, and was interested in researching Egyptian
history. He briefed me on his marvelous work and valuable data concerning
the Holy Family's journey to Egypt, where they escaped to find shelter
and refuge from danger. The Holy Family blessed several places in
Egypt which have been preserved and protected until today by the Egyptians,
who are famous for loyalty and belonging to their dear country. The
visit of the Holy Family to Egypt distinguished this country worldwide,
and attracted tourists and pilgrims from the world, regardless of
their religions.
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| Due to my traveling and living in Western countries most
of my life, I have seen many refugees facing difficulties in their
social, economic and living conditions, often resulting in total misunderstanding
between different people and religions. Hence, I was interested in
supporting and highlighting this project, aiming at drawing attention
to the places blessed by the Holy Family's journey in Egypt. Consequently,
the whole world ought to know this historical tradition, that by finding
such protection, safety and respect in the beloved Egypt, the Holy
Family was able to continue their sacred message to all nations. I
hope by this message, refugees in the Western world will be treated
fairly and generously. |
| Enan Galaly |
| Senior Advisor, International
Association of University Presidents |
| Senior Advisor, Heart
Foundation, Denmark |
| Founder and Honorary Chairman,
Scandinavian Business Association, Egypt |
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