Agriculture minister urges increased cooperation with Africa

CAIRO - 30 October 2018: Agricultural cooperation can help develop Egypt's relations with Africa, said Ezzedine Abu Stait Tuesday.

Addressing the African affairs committee of parliament, the Egyptian agriculture minister said President Abdel Fatah al-Sisi pays particular attention to relations with Africa, noting that Egypt is now back to lead the continent after a period of marginalization.

Egypt, Abu Stait added, will chair the African Union next year.

According to him, Egypt can very much benefit from agricultural cooperation with African countries, pointing out that the efficiency of land and water abundance are two major factors that can guarantee the quality of production in Africa.

The Egyptian private sector and investors should play an effective role to help boost ties with Africa, the minister urged, noting that agriculture investments can do the trick.

He said there are eight Egyptian model farms in eight African countries, noting that his Ministry plans to have a total of 22 farms across the continent by 2020.