Egypt’s Minister of Social Solidarity, Dr. Maya Morsy, met today with H.E. Eric Chevallier, Ambassador of France to Cairo, at the Ministry’s headquarters in the New Administrative Capital. The meeting was held in the presence of senior ministry officials, including Dina El Sirfy, Assistant Minister for International Cooperation and Global Partnerships, and Amira Taj El-Din, Director General of International Agreements and Relations.
Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation on Social and Economic Priorities
Welcoming the ambassador, Minister Morsy commended the long-standing strategic partnership between Egypt and France, noting the strength and depth of bilateral relations across multiple sectors.
The discussion focused on the Ministry’s key areas of work, particularly in social protection and economic empowerment. Minister Morsy highlighted the landmark “Takaful and Karama” conditional cash transfer program, now in its 10th year, which has provided support to a total of 7.7 million Egyptian families since its inception. Notably, 3 million families have exited the program over time due to improved economic circumstances, leaving 4.7 million families currently benefiting from the initiative.
A Shift Toward Sustainable Economic Inclusion
Minister Morsy also outlined Egypt’s national efforts to transition from traditional social safety nets to a more sustainable, integrated model of economic empowerment. This includes the launch of a strategic financial framework designed to support entrepreneurship, income generation, and long-term resilience among vulnerable populations.
The meeting further addressed ongoing cooperation between the French Development Agency (AFD) and various Egyptian civil society organizations, with both parties expressing a shared interest in expanding collaboration in economic inclusion, social services, and community development.
French Interest in Humanitarian and Community Initiatives
Ambassador Chevallier expressed a particular interest in visiting the Egyptian Red Crescent (ERC) to observe first aid awareness programs, which aim to train individuals across different segments of society in life-saving skills. Minister Morsy welcomed the proposal, recognizing the ERC’s critical role in emergency response and public health education.
Shared Vision for Development
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation in the months and years ahead. The meeting concluded with a mutual acknowledgment of the strategic and friendly ties between Egypt and France, and the importance of enhancing joint initiatives in line with shared development goals.
