Cairo, April 9, 2026; the Ambassador of Italy to Egypt H.E. Mr. Agostino Palese will confer upon prominent Egyptian businessman Naguib Sawiris the title of Grand Officer of the “Ordine della Stella d’Italia” (Order of the Star of Italy), one of Italy’s highest civilian honors. The distinction recognizes Mr. Sawiris’ longstanding contributions to strengthening economic, industrial, and social ties between Egypt and Italy, as well as his broader role in fostering international cooperation.
“It is a great honor to receive this distinguished recognition from the Italian Republic,” said Mr. Sawiris. “Italy has long been a valued partner to Egypt, and I am proud to have contributed, in my own way, to strengthening the ties between our two countries. I believe there remains significant opportunity to further deepen this relationship across investment, culture, and shared development goals.”
Mr. Sawiris has received numerous international honors for his business leadership and philanthropic impact. In 2011, he was awarded the “Star of Italian Solidarity” by the Italian government in recognition of his leadership of the largest Egyptian investment in Italy and his significant contribution to the Italian economy.
His international recognitions also include the prestigious “Légion d’Honneur,” where he was first appointed Officer and subsequently elevated to the rank of Commander, France’s highest distinction for exceptional services to the country. He was also conferred the “Sitara-e-Quaid-e-Azam” in 2006 by President Gen. Pervez Musharraf for his contributions to telecommunications, investment, and social development in Pakistan. In 2021, he received an Honorary Doctorate of Law from Handong Global University in South Korea.
The formal award ceremony will take place on April 9, 2026, at the residence of the Ambassador of Italy in Cairo, where the honor will be presented by H.E. Mr. Agostino Palese. Commenting on the occasion, the Ambassador of Italy to Egypt, said: “This recognition is a testament to the ongoing commitment of Mr. Sawiris to strengthening ties between Italy and Egypt. Through significant investments in the telecommunications and digital sectors in Italy and in his previous role as co-chair of the Italian-Egyptian Business Council, he has made a significant contribution to the development of bilateral cooperation, promoting growth, innovation, and dialogue between our Countries.”
The “Ordine della Stella d’Italia” is among Italy’s most distinguished honors, awarded to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to promoting friendship and cooperation between Italy and other nations.
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