Pablo Echenique, a prominent member of the political party Podemos, has expressed discontent with Yolanda Díaz, the Minister of Labor in Spain, for attending the inauguration of the Grand Egyptian Museum alongside King Felipe VI in Egypt. Echenique criticized Díaz”s absence from her ministerial duties for the event, which he believes was unnecessary.
The inauguration occurred in Giza, where the king was welcomed by various officials, including the Egyptian Minister of Labor, Mohamed Abdel Aziz Gibran, and Spain”s ambassador to Egypt, Sergio Román. The museum is set to house nearly 100,000 artifacts, along with an antiquities storage area and a restoration laboratory, according to a statement from the Royal House.
In a post on social media platform X, Echenique addressed the situation, stating his approval of Díaz”s attendance but questioning the implications of her absence from her responsibilities. He remarked, “I find it perfectly fine that Yolanda Díaz went with Felipe VI to the inauguration of the Grand Egyptian Museum because…” He emphasized the significance of the event while also highlighting concerns regarding her ministerial role.
During the state visit to Egypt, both King Felipe and Queen Letizia toured the Valley of the Kings, where they observed ongoing projects aimed at enhancing and preserving archaeological sites in Luxor and Giza. This initiative also includes plans for developing tourism in the area surrounding the royal tombs.
The controversy arises from the perception that attending such an event may distract from the pressing issues that Díaz faces in her ministerial capacity. Echenique”s comments reflect a broader concern within the political landscape regarding the responsibilities of public officials and their engagement in international events.
