In a gala ceremony at the Catholic University in Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic, the University’s Dean, Dr. Ramon Olonso, bestowed upon Dr. Zahi Hawass, Secretary General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA), an honorary doctorate for his great achievement in and devotion to the field of archaeology. 

The ceremony was attended by the Dominican Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carlos Marlos and all the university professors as well as more than 1000 of its students. Hawass was also given the university’s golden medallion and ring.

In his speech, Dean Olonso highlighted Dr. Hawass's achievements and scientific research in the field of archaeology, and described his work as a “revolution in the field of archaeology”, a revolution that has caught the attention of the whole world as Hawass was keen on executing all plans and strategies that would guarantee the conservation and preservation of Egypt’s archaeological heritage.

During the ceremony Mr. Marlos praised Egypt’s efforts to protect and preserve its heritage as well as Hawass’ efforts in the field through his discoveries, books and articles.

On his part, Hawass said that Egypt’s monuments do not belong only to Egypt but to the whole world as it is a great and unique heritage. He also highlighted the archaeological cooperation between Egypt and the Dominican Republic, specially the joint excavation mission in search for the tombs of Queen Cleopatra and Mark Antony at Taposiris Magna, west of Alexandria.

At the Global Foundation for Democracy and Development, Hawass delivered a public lecture about Egypt’s monuments and recent discoveries in the west bank of Luxor, Saqqara and Giza Plateau.  

He also gave another lecture at one of Santo Domingo’s Schools, where he talked about the treasure of the boy king Tutankhamun. This lecture was attended by the first lady of the Dominican Republic, Dr. Margarita Cedeno Fernandez.

Also, actor Omar Sharif was honored by President Fernandez, who conferred upon him the knighthood, for his lifetime achievement and career in Cinema. A 15 minute documentary about Omar Sharif’s life was also screened.