Egypt’s Minister of Planning, Dr. Rania Al-Mashat, inaugurated and chaired the 9th meeting of the Sub-Committee on Transport, Environment, and Energy between Egypt and the European Union. This meeting is a critical component of the ongoing strategic partnership between both sides.
Key Participants and Stakeholders
The meeting included representatives from various Egyptian ministries: Foreign Affairs, Migration and Egyptians Abroad, Electricity and Renewable Energy, Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Water Resources and Irrigation, Environment, Transport, Civil Aviation, Industry, and the Suez Canal Authority. Delegates from the European Commission, the EU Delegation to Egypt, the European Investment Bank, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, the French Development Agency, as well as representatives from several EU countries, also participated.
Advancing Egypt-EU Economic Cooperation
In her opening remarks, Dr. Al-Mashat highlighted the importance of the Sub-Committee meeting in advancing Egypt-EU economic relations. She emphasized the Ministry’s role in promoting strategic cooperation between the two parties. The discussions focused on areas such as food security, water security, green hydrogen, and collaboration in transport, energy, and the environment. Dr. Al-Mashat noted the substantial progress achieved since the 8th meeting in Brussels in March 2023.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
Dr. Al-Mashat praised the continued positive development of Egypt-EU relations, particularly in investment, trade, and economic matters. She confirmed that the Ministry is working in coordination with national authorities to further deepen these relations. The recently announced 7.4 billion euros package, as well as collaborations with European countries and financial institutions, were highlighted as key components of the ongoing partnership.
Review of Progress Since the Last Meeting
The committee reviewed the achievements made since the 8th meeting held in February 2023. The discussion focused on significant developments and projects in transport, energy, and environmental sectors. Participants shared lessons learned from these initiatives and discussed ways to improve efficiency and meet common goals.
Strategic Discussions on Key Sectors
The meeting’s agenda included discussions on energy, with a focus on Egypt’s efforts to expand clean energy production. Participants also explored the country’s progress in implementing its National Sustainable Energy Strategy. Other topics included climate change, environmental issues, irrigation, and transportation infrastructure. The modernization of public transportation networks and maritime transport cooperation were also covered.
European Union’s Energy Policies
The European side presented updates on its energy policies, including developments related to the European Green Deal. They discussed the legislative measures supporting these policies and the environmental initiatives being implemented under both bilateral and regional frameworks.
Commitment to Sustainable Development
At the conclusion of the meeting, both sides agreed on the importance of continuing to strengthen the partnership in the discussed sectors. They emphasized the need to define clear priorities for the upcoming period. Enhanced coordination between national and regional stakeholders was recognized as crucial for maximizing the impact of their efforts.
Egypt’s Economic Stability and Growth
In a related development, Dr. Al-Mashat also addressed Egypt’s ongoing efforts to stabilize its economy. She highlighted the direct impact of economic stability on citizens and the private sector. In a recent television interview, she noted a decline in public investments during the first quarter of the 2024-2025 fiscal year, while private investments showed a significant increase.
Focus on Structural Reforms
Dr. Al-Mashat explained that the 2024-2025 fiscal year marks the first time that financing from development partners to the private sector has exceeded government funding. The government remains focused on structural reforms that aim to create a more supportive business environment, stimulate the private sector, and drive green transformation.
Regional Development Priorities
Dr. Al-Mashat also highlighted that Upper Egypt accounts for 35% of investments in local development projects. The Ministry is working to identify development gaps and provide the necessary investment opportunities and funding to support regional growth.
