Belt and Road Film Week is an event that showcases films and promotes cultural exchange among countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative, 2025, which was intruded by the Shanghai International Film Festival back in 2018.
It features screenings, awards, and activities aimed at enhancing cooperation in the film industry. 55 Film organisations and festival comprising 48 counties now take part, along with Egypt they China, Portugal, Chile, Colombia, Indonesia, Hungary, the Netherlands and Mongolia
Belt and Road Week is significant for Egyptian film as it enhances collaboration and visibility for Arab cinema, allowing Egyptian films greater access to Asian markets. The Cairo International Film Festival’s participation aims to foster partnerships and cultural exchange, benefiting filmmakers and promoting Egyptian cinema internationally.
Egypt is proud to be participating for the 7th successive year in the Belt and Road Film Festival Alliance, Representing CIFF at the event was film critic Mohamed Tarek, the Festival’s Artistic Director, who took an active part in the alliance’s official meetings. The discussions focused on ways to increase cooperation between member festivals, promote the exchange of films, and organise cross-border cultural and cinematic events. These efforts aim to raise the international profile of Arab cinema and create new opportunities for filmmakers from alliance member states.
A pioneer in the African and Arab world Egyptian cinema has an impressive legacy that dates back to the 1890s. With over four thousand features, shorts and documentaries produced across the region, the country’s film industry has been a cornerstone of creativity showcasing the nation’s cultural heritage and creating a bridge between the generations. Cairo International Film Festival, the oldest and only internationally accredited, annually running film festival in the Arab world, Africa and the Middle East will celebrate its 46th edition from 12-21 November 2025. @MeredithTaylor
CAIRO INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL | 12-21 November 2025