Egypt’s Minister of International Cooperation, Rania Al-Mashat, met with key representatives from the World Bank Group and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) during the Spring Meetings in Washington D.C. The discussions focused on bolstering Egypt’s economic development through strategic partnerships.
Minister Al-Mashat emphasized the need for expanded development financing to achieve sustainable development goals and combat poverty. Discussions centered on expanding development financing for Egypt to achieve sustainable development goals and combat poverty. A development policy financing program was addressed, aiming to support structural reforms in competitiveness, macroeconomic resilience, and the green economy. This aligns with the Egypt-World Bank Group Country Partnership Framework (2023-2027) to foster private sector growth and equal opportunities.
On the other hand, discussions with JICA focused on supporting Egypt’s economic reforms, enhancing competitiveness, and transitioning to a green economy through development policy financing. Minister Al-Mashat emphasized this collaboration as part of broader efforts with other development partners. The discussions tackled programs in cultural exchange, food security, and implementing NWFE program projects (water-food-energy nexus)
On the other hand, an upcoming JICA technical mission to Egypt in April aims to further explore cooperation opportunities. Collaboration aims to support small farmers, improve living standards, and enhance agricultural production.
The meeting highlighted the progress in Egyptian-Japanese relations under President El-Sisi, including high-level visits that resulted in new bilateral initiatives in various sectors. Further, Minister Al-Mashat announced plans for the annual Egyptian-Japanese policy dialogue later this year, solidifying the strategic partnership between the two nations.
