UN to provide support, consultation to Egypt: UN diplomat

CAIRO – 18 April 2017: The United Nations will provide technical and political support to Egypt that will focus on bridging the differences among social groups, enhancing women's participation in the economy and supporting the youth, the resident coordinator of the UN in Egypt, Richard Dictus, told state news agency MENA Tuesday.

Dictus is optimistic about Egypt’s future in light of the measures taken with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, which enjoys the support of the international community, MENA reported.

According to the UN diplomat, Egypt’s agreement with the IMF was the only option to deal with poverty and provide job opportunities on the long term.

Egypt will witness a real economic development within a year and half, he stated, adding that this depends on the stability of the local currency and the creation of job opportunities and new investments.

Concerning the UN’s priorities in Egypt in the coming period, Dictus stated it will focus on three aspects: minimizing the differences among the social groups in terms of employment and income, enhancing women participation in the economy and social life and supporting the youth.

“We are working with the ministries of international cooperation and foreign affairs to develop the framework of the partnership with the UN in order to achieve sustainable development,” Dictos said.

He further stressed that the UN agencies are working hard with the Egyptian government to support social security networks, such as establishing a school nutrition program in coordination with the Ministry of Education and helping Syrian refugees in Egypt.

Referring to his meetings with Egyptian ministers and Prime Minister Sherif Ismail, the UN diplomat said that he sensed a strong desire to change the current situation, pointing to the necessity to communicate with people and inform them about the problem of overpopulation.