Deputy UNSG: Egypt’s ICF important platform to explore stakeholders’ potential in addressing development challenges

CAIRO – 8 September 2021: Deputy UN Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed hailed Egypt’s first edition of the International Cooperation Forum as an important forum to explore the potential of all development stakeholders in addressing development challenges.

She also hailed the ICF as an important platform to explore the stakeholders’ potential in sharing catalytic solutions, especially in the African context.

“Our United Nations' country teams around the world stand ready to support you in adapting these solutions and engaging with all relevant stakeholders,” Mohammed said.

“I congratulate the government of Egypt for its leadership in convening this important forum with the participation of all stakeholders to work jointly in building a strong recovery from the pandemic and accelerating progress on the [Sustainable Development Goals] (SDGs),” she said.

“I wish the forum all success and I thank his excellency, President [Abdel Fattah] El-Sisi, for this leadership,” she added.

Earlier, President Sisi delivered a speech at the ICF, saying green recovery has become a pressing necessity and a top priority for world governments currently, as he gave a speech during the first edition of Egypt's International Cooperation Forum (Egypt-ICF).

“In present time, humanity is passing through the most difficult test in long period of time as it faces numerous challenges represented in the repercussions of the coronavirus pandemic and the negative impact of climate changes,” Sisi said.

“This imposes a new reality upon us that requires more creative ideas and formulations in the decision-making process and more awareness with regard to potential dangers and a balanced approach based on joint action to achieve sustainable and green economic development and progress to fulfill the aspirations of the peoples of the world,” the president noted.

Also, Minister of International Cooperation, Rania Al-Mashat said the coronavirus pandemic forced the world to make exceptional efforts to achieve sustainable development and confront climate changes so that the world would emerge stronger and more resolute.

The ICF started its activities on Wednesday and will last for two days, under the auspices of Sisi and in the presence of Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly and a number of ministers and representatives Governments from Africa, Europe and Latin America, heads of international and regional financial institutions, representatives of the private sector, and the civil society.