STATEMENT BY ROBERT G. BAUVAL
(Co-Author of THE ORION MYSTERY and KEEPER OF GENESIS)
17 July 1998
It is widely known that Dr. Zahi Hawass, the Director-General Of The Giza and Saqqara
Pyramids, and myself have had serious differences since 1993 over my thesis on the
astronomy of the Giza monuments and others issues. Since last year, however, Dr. Hawass
and I have established a friendly and civil dialogue. I am thoroughly convinced now that
our disagreements over matters related to recent explorations at Giza have been largely
due to misunderstandings and mutual misconceptions.
Dr. Hawass is a veteran of the Giza plateau and I strongly feel that he is the best man
qualified for the difficult task of keeping these precious monuments safe and
well-preserved for the future generations to enjoy. His task is not an easy one, as it
involves finding the right balance between tourism, restoration and the complex day-to-day
administration of the Pyramid area.
There has been much false allegations and misrepresentation regarding Dr. Hawass's person
on the Internet and US radio by certain individuals. All these malicious allegations are
untrue and I side with my colleagues Graham Hancock and John Anthony West to condemn these
individuals.
There are no conspiracies, hidden agendas or secret explorations at Giza. The recent
closures of the Great Pyramid is a necessary step to conduct much needed restorations and
ameliorations to the internal system of ventilation.
I am delighted to hear of the recent promotion of Dr. Hawass to the post of
Under-Secretary of State For The Giza Monuments. More so. I am pleased to hear that he
will remain attached to the Giza Plateau for many years to come. Many will agree with me
that the Giza Plateau would simply not be the same without him. Dr. Hawass has my best
wishes and "alf Mabrook" for this promotion and I also wish him all the success
for the future.
Signed: Robert G. Bauval
Buckinghamshire 17 July 1998