Attention is turning to Cairo ahead of Sunday, August 23, when Egypt’s Court of Cassation is expected to issue its final ruling in the case concerning the property status of the historic Monastery of Saint Catherine at Mount Sinai.
The development is also considered significant for Greek-Egyptian relations, as Athens and Cairo have yet to reach a definitive settlement despite months of consultations over an issue that has remained unresolved for more than a year.
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The issue came sharply into focus following a court ruling in May 2025, which caused considerable concern in Greece and within the monastic community.
At the time, Egyptian authorities rejected interpretations suggesting that the Monastery faced closure or confiscation. They maintained that its religious character and continued operation were safeguarded and that the monks retained the right to use the Monastery and its facilities.
The central point of contention, however, concerns the land and properties surrounding the historic monastic complex and the question of their legal ownership.
Consultations between Athens and Cairo
The case has acquired considerable political and diplomatic significance. Following the May 2025 ruling, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi discussed the issue by telephone.
The two leaders agreed that efforts to resolve the matter should be based on the common understanding previously reached between Greece and Egypt.
In the broader context of supporting the Greek Orthodox presence in the region, the Greek government has also moved to establish at least 600 permanent clergy positions for the ancient Patriarchates.
Questions nevertheless remain regarding progress in filling these positions and whether any obstacles have emerged in implementing the relevant provisions.
Four Greek MEPs bring issue before European Commission
Meanwhile, the issue has once again been raised at the European level.
On August 19, four PASOK Members of the European Parliament — Giannis Maniatis, Nikos Papandreou, Sakis Arnaoutoglou and Nikolas Farantouris — submitted a joint written question to the European Commission ahead of the crucial court proceedings.
By Konstantinos Menyktas
