Egypt’s delegation from Workers’ Union participates in BRICS conference in Sochi

CAIRO – 7 September 2024: A delegation from the Egyptian Workers' Union participated in the BRICS conference in the Russian city of Sochi.

He emphasized that Egypt's participation seeks to ensure balance and mutual benefit within a framework of fairness, meeting the aspirations of peoples for economic and social development, said the head of the union Abdel-Moneim Al-Jamal.

This approach aims to create a healthy environment that considers all aspects equitably, avoiding favoritism, exploitation, or monopoly, he added.

During his participation, Head of the General Union of Public Utilities Workers Hesham Fouad emphasized that Egypt’s accession to the BRICS group has opened new opportunities for labor and trade union organizations to enhance cooperation and foster international relations.

Fouad called for the development of a joint strategy and a clear vision for labor union solidarity among member states. He stressed the need for mechanisms that promote dialogue to strengthen trade union organizations, enhance their presence, and support their national roles. This includes providing job opportunities, improving workers' living standards, and safeguarding their interests.

He also highlighted that current geopolitical developments, conflicts, and economic crises affecting workers underscore the importance of a strong union presence to advocate for their rights and address contemporary challenges. Fouad noted the efforts to reduce reliance on the dollar and establish a parallel market through cooperation and development programs among BRICS members.

Egypt’s trade relations with the BRICS countries have reached a total volume of approximately $25 billion across various sectors, said former Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Hala El-Said in June during the ST. Petersburg International Economic Forum 2024. She emphasized Egypt’s advantageous geographical location and its ambition to become a prominent hub for trade, logistics, and smart logistics services, with investments over LE 10 trillion in infrastructure to support this goal.

Egypt's membership in the BRICS activated onJanuary 1, 2024, which was welcomed by Russia, current chair of the group, and that expressed desire to continue cooperation for deepening partnership and accomplishing many achievements.

In August, South Africa, BRICS' former chair, invited Egypt, Argentine, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Iran, and Ethiopia to be full members during the group's 15th summit.