Minister of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation Participates in MENA Business Forum

 

 

Al-Mashat:Elevating Egyptian-French relations to a strategic partnership is a pivotal step embodying the strength of the ties between the two countries.

 

We are working to enhance the competitiveness of the Egyptian economy and open the way for the private sector to drive economic development efforts.

 

 

 

H.E. Dr. Rania A. Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation, participated in the Business Forum for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, organized by the French Foreign Trade Advisors (CCEF) under the patronage of French President Emmanuel Macron. The forum, which commenced on May 8th, witnessed a large attendance of representatives from the Egyptian and French governments, the private sector, and investors.

 

In her speech, H.E. Dr. Rania Al-Mashat emphasized the importance of the strategic partnership between the Arab Republic of Egypt and the French Republic, which represents a significant achievement during the historic visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to Egypt last April.

 

H.E. Dr. Al-Mashat pointed out that this visit marked a new chapter in the bilateral relations between the two countries, culminating in the signing of numerous international agreements and partnerships across various sectors. This reflects the deep-rooted and strong Egyptian-French relations that extend throughout history. She added that these achievements embody the shared vision towards achieving sustainable development, consolidating regional stability, and enhancing the ability of societies to adapt to climate change.

 

H.E. Minister Al-Mashat added that climate change is no longer a distant threat but has become a present and pressing reality. She noted that the region, with its specific environmental characteristics and developmental challenges, has a doubled responsibility to confront this challenge. She further stated that Egypt's vision for environmental transition is based on climate innovation, green investment, and strategic choices that chart a more sustainable and resilient future.

 

H.E. Dr. Al-Mashat pointed to the necessity of bold solutions that include modern technology, digital tools, and circular economy models, which contribute to enhancing growth and reducing carbon emissions, whether in the field of renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, or low-emission transportation.

 

H.E. Minister Al-Mashat highlighted the significance of supporting innovators and entrepreneurs who are shaping the features of the future green economy. She added that transformation cannot be achieved without investments, which necessitates redirecting capital flows towards environmental priorities.

The Minister referred to the Country Platform for the "NWFE" program – the nexus of water, food, and energy projects – as a vivid example of the comprehensive vision. She highlighted that this pioneering initiative is not merely a tool but a platform for integration, coordination, and achieving impact.

 

H.E. Dr. Al-Mashat continued that the "NWFE" initiative contributes to aligning national and regional development goals with climate ambitions and ensures the harmony of efforts away from scattered work by promoting integration between sectors. She affirmed the initiative's success in already mobilizing billions of dollars in climate finance, noting the importance of the private sector's participation not only as a financier but as a key partner in this fundamental transformation.

 

H.E. Dr. Al-Mashat stressed the need to enable companies to invest in low-carbon pathways, develop sustainable supply chains, and adopt clean technologies. She mentioned that the government's responsibility lies in providing a stable and transparent investment environment, enhancing trust, and removing obstacles that hinder the private sector's participation in achieving sustainability goals.

 

H.E. Minister Al-Mashat reiterated that the private sector has always been a fundamental partner in providing solutions, as it offers expertise, investments, and efficiency that complement the state's efforts. She continued that through strategic partnerships, technological developments, and the expansion of services, the partnership between the public and private sectors can play a transformative role in improving outcomes and ensuring long-term sustainability. She added that the involvement of the private sector contributes to enhancing competitiveness, raising the quality of services, and innovating new models that drive development.

 

H.E. Dr. Al-Mashat affirmed that Egypt is moving forward in unleashing the potential of the private sector to contribute to driving the development process and creating job opportunities. She noted that with its expanding economy and its commitment to providing an attractive investment climate, Egypt is open and ready to forge new partnerships and attract foreign investments that enhance innovation, support economic growth, and achieve sustainable development.

 

H.E. Dr. Rania Al-Mashat reaffirmed that investors looking to enter the Egyptian market will find a wide range of strategic reforms that open promising horizons in various traditional and emerging sectors.

Minister of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation Participates in MENA Business Forum