CAIRO – 23 June 2024: Egypt and the European Union have experienced a significant transformation in their relationship since President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi took office in 2014.
This relationship has recently been elevated to a "comprehensive strategic partnership," recognizing Egypt's political and economic influence, strategic location, and developmental progress.
Egypt's Foreign Policy Under President Sisi
President Sisi's foreign policy, established after the June 30 revolution, emphasizes mutual respect, non-interference, and national sovereignty. Egypt has worked to secure its national interests globally, balancing relations with diverse nations while upholding the principles outlined in Sisi's 2014 inauguration speech.
Strengthening EU-Egypt Relations
Over the past decade, Egypt, under President Sisi, has reaped the benefits of its proactive and diverse diplomatic efforts. The relationship between Egypt and the EU has grown on political, economic, and strategic levels, reflecting a shared history and mutual goals.
Key Developments and Future Prospects
The upcoming joint investment conference in Cairo on June 29, co-hosted by President Sisi and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, aims to further strengthen these ties. The conference will focus on Egypt's economic reforms, green transition, and resilience against global challenges.
Strategic Partnership and High-Level Cooperation
Continuous high-level coordination and consultations between Egypt and the EU address significant regional and international issues, highlighted by the recent Gaza conflict.
The depth of this relationship was affirmed during the EU-Egypt summit in Cairo in March, reflecting the enduring political, economic, and cultural ties based on mutual respect and shared interests.
Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement
The new strategic partnership agreement outlines cooperation areas such as political relations, macroeconomic stability, sustainable investment, trade, energy, water, food security, climate change, migration, security, and human capital development. This partnership aims to unlock the full potential of EU-Egypt relations.
Political and Economic Collaboration
Egypt and the EU will continue to enhance political dialogue, support democratic values, and promote human rights and gender equality. The EU is prepared to assist Egypt in implementing its National Human Rights Strategy in line with the 2021-2027 partnership priorities.
Economic Stability and Development
The EU is committed to supporting Egypt's 2030 development agenda, ensuring long-term macroeconomic stability and sustainable growth. Financial support from the EU will complement IMF funding, boosting private sector investment and mitigating global economic pressures.
Investment and Trade
The EU is dedicated to fostering cooperation with Egypt in renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, agriculture, food security, digital transformation, and water management. This collaboration is expected to attract up to €5 billion in European investments.
Migration and Security
Egypt and the EU adopt a comprehensive approach to migration governance, focusing on legal migration pathways, addressing the root causes of illegal migration, combating human trafficking, and enhancing border management.
Educational and Technological Cooperation
The EU will support Egypt in technical and vocational education and training, aligning skills with labor market needs. Collaborative efforts will extend to research, innovation, and student exchange programs like Erasmus+.
High-Level Visits and Historical Milestones
President Sisi's numerous meetings with EU officials, including his historic visit to Brussels in February 2022 for the Africa-Europe summit, underscore the strong EU-Egypt relations.
The first Arab-European summit in Sharm El-Sheikh in February 2019 and the establishment of the East Mediterranean Gas Forum in Cairo further highlight this robust partnership.
Future Goals and Collaboration
The EU-Egypt partnership aims to address common challenges, enhance mutual interests, and ensure long-term stability and sustainable development on both sides of the Mediterranean.
The European Council President Charles Michel has highlighted Egypt as a crucial partner, emphasizing the constructive and positive nature of the relationship.
The EU and Egypt have made substantial progress in their relationship over the past decade, marked by mutual respect and shared goals. This partnership is poised to continue flourishing, driving political, economic, and strategic collaboration to new heights.
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