It will also address issues of importance to the political, economic and social development in both regions as well as contribute to the Euro-Mediterranean partnership. The Swedish government decided to create the institute in 1998 as a result of an agreement between Sweden and Egypt, signed in September 1999. The institute is housed in a building on the Corniche in the Eastern Port which has since 1925 served as the Swedish Consulate. To accommodate the institute, the building has undergone comprehensive renovation. According to the information supplied by the embassy, the institute is an autonomous part of Sweden's Foreign Service, with a board and an advisory committee appointed by the Swedish government.
Funding is provided from Sweden's allocation to international development cooperation.
It will also serve as a venue for meetings arranged by other institutions, contain a reference library, arrange lectures and exhibitions and office space for guest researchers. The institute is the fruit of long cooperation between Egypt and Sweden. Sweden's interest in the Middle East dates back to the 18th century when the well-known botanist Von Leniet undertook exploratory travels in the area to study its flora. He was followed by the famous botanist Vivi Tikholm who lived in Egypt for many years and died in 1978. Tikholm's Egyptian students recently held a memorial in her honour.