On COP28 Sidelines: Egypt’s Planning Minister, GGGI Director meet to discuss the concept of Transition toward a Green Economy

H.E. Dr. Hala El-Said, Minister of Planning and Economic Development met with Frank Rijsbirman, Director-General of the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) to discuss the transition towards a green economy and enhancing cooperation.

The meeting took place during Cop28 which is currently being held starting from November 30 to December 12, 2023, in Dubai.

During the meeting, El-Said referred to the issue of water, which is closely linked to the issue of climate change, explaining that Egypt is working hard to put the issue of water at the top of its priorities.

She further stressed that changing weather patterns and drought resulting from climate change have major impacts on water security.

El-Said explained that enhancing water use efficiency and expanding our water resources is the best way forward to provide access to safe drinking water and sanitation, improve water quality, and address water scarcity.

El-Said also pointed out that Africa and the Middle East region face great challenges in the field of food security due to limited arable land and water resources, changing dietary habits, and ongoing geopolitical challenges.

  Climate impacts also have an impact on the agricultural sector, which represents one of the main economic sectors in Africa and the Middle East region, harming crops, according to El-Said.

El-Said asserted her appreciation for the various international and regional efforts to support the ability of African countries and the Middle East region to adapt to the impact of climate and build resilience for current and future generations.

  El-Said added that these efforts and initiatives need to be supported with the necessary tools and mechanisms to ensure their ability to achieve their goals to accelerate climate action in different regions, especially in vital sectors such as agriculture and food security.

The meeting witnessed the presence of Dr. Mona Essam, Assistant Minister of Planning for Sustainable Development Affairs, and Dr. Mohamed El-Okby, media advisor to the Minister of Planning and Economic Development.