Deputy Minister of Planning initiates a Workshop on Integrated Financing Strategy in Egypt in Collaboration with UNDP

Dr. Ahmed Kamali, Deputy Minister of Planning and Economic Development, initiated a workshop organized by the Ministry on the topic of "Financing Dialogue: Integrated Financing Strategy in Egypt." This collaborative event, in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Joint SDG Fund, aimed to address the strategy for financing sustainable development goals in Egypt.

Distinguished attendees included Ahmed Kjouk, Deputy Minister of Finance, Dr. Mona Essam, Assistant Minister of Planning for Sustainable Development Affairs, Rawi Afghani, Deputy Resident Representative of UNDP, Scott Standley, Economist at the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR), and Dr. Ashraf El-Arabi, President of the Institute of National Planning (INP)

During the workshop, Dr. Ahmed Kamali underscored the critical significance of financing sustainable development and highlighted Egypt's proactive approach to recognizing the challenges associated with achieving international goals. He emphasized the collaborative efforts spanning three years between the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development and UNDP, resulting in the formulation of an integrated plan to secure development financing. Dr. Kamali further explained that the integrated national financing frameworks (INFF) aim to bridge financing gaps, mitigate financial risks, and reduce future debt burdens through the implementation of an appropriate financing approach.

This event serves as a testament to the Ministry's dedication and commitment to advancing sustainable development in Egypt. The workshop provided a platform for in-depth discussions, fostering an environment conducive to formulating effective strategies for financing the country's development goals.

Kamali emphasized the need for governments to prioritize sustainable development goals and determine the associated costs. After examining the development gaps and current situation in Egypt, the government identified key sectors to focus on, including human development, education, health, protection, transportation, and sanitation in small villages.

In Egypt's Vision 2030, the Deputy Minister of Planning highlighted the importance of considering gender equality and climate issues in all sectors, as they have a positive impact on each other.

Dr. Ahmed Kamali stressed the significance of developing a strategy tailored specifically to Egypt's reality, with a detailed and accurate view, to find practical solutions and implement effective policies. He emphasized the need to compare priorities, focus on the ultimate goal, and rely on quantitative evidence, while also adopting a participatory approach.

Regarding the Integrated National Financing Frameworks (INFF) document, the Deputy Minister of Planning explained the goal of implementing measures that are suitable for the state's circumstances and capabilities, ensuring their effectiveness and success. He emphasized the importance of impartially assessing the situation and conducting an objective analysis to gain a comprehensive understanding that contributes to the development process.

Dr. Mona Essam, Assistant Minister of Planning for Sustainable Development Affairs, emphasized the significance of utilizing the INFF document and promoting collaboration to formulate a comprehensive financing strategy. She highlighted that this document serves as a communication tool and acts as a starting point for integrating sustainable development goals. Additionally, she underscored the interconnectedness of finance and development.

In attendance at the workshop were representatives from the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of International Cooperation, the Financial Supervision Authority, the Sovereign Fund of Egypt (TSFE), the Central Bank of Egypt (CBE), the General Authority for Investment and Free Zones, UNICEF, the International Labor Organization, the Faculty of Economics and Political Science at Cairo University, and the British University in Egypt. 

Other relevant bodies and organizations were also present.