Egypt’s Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Dr. Ayman Ashour, met with Angelina Eichhorst, the European Union Ambassador to Egypt, to discuss expanding the scope of cooperation between Egypt and the EU in various fields. The meeting, held at the Ministry’s Cairo offices, was attended by Dr. Ayman Farid, Assistant Minister for Strategic Planning and Training for the Labor Market, and Dr. Salma Yousry, Minister’s Advisor for International Cooperation.
During the meeting, both sides explored opportunities to strengthen joint cooperation and expand its reach to serve mutual interests and sustainable development in Egypt.
Strategic Importance of Egypt-EU Collaboration in Education and Innovation
Dr. Ashour emphasized the growing strategic importance of Egypt’s relationship with the European Union, particularly in the realms of higher education, research, and innovation. He praised the tangible results achieved through joint initiatives, programs, and scholarships, highlighting Egypt’s strong commitment to deepening this collaboration as part of the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two sides.
“Egypt views human development as a fundamental pillar for achieving comprehensive and sustainable development. Therefore, enhancing our cooperation in education and innovation is critical to our shared goals,” Dr. Ashour remarked.
He also pointed out the significant expansion of Egypt’s ties with European countries, noting that the Egyptian-European partnership is based on values of fairness, mutual respect, and shared trust.
In this context, Dr. Ashour mentioned the recent successful visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to Egypt, which resulted in the signing of 42 memoranda of understanding between higher education institutions in both countries. He also highlighted the establishment of branches of several European universities in Egypt, a move that strengthens academic and research relations. Dr. Ashour stressed Egypt’s commitment to supporting knowledge exchange with European countries to further improve Egypt’s higher education system.
Egypt’s Strategic Participation in Horizon Europe Program
Dr. Ashour also commended the significant progress made in Egypt’s efforts to join the “Horizon Europe” program as a partner country. Egypt officially applied for membership in March 2024, and negotiations began in October of the same year. These negotiations led to the preliminary signing of the agreement, paving the way for its formal approval.
“Horizon Europe” is a leading EU initiative aimed at supporting research and innovation. Egypt’s inclusion in the program would open new avenues for collaboration in vital sectors such as renewable energy, food security, digital transformation, health, and education, enhancing sustainable development and benefiting both the Egyptian and European peoples. Dr. Ashour also praised the Erasmus program for facilitating valuable student and academic exchanges.
Expanding Interdisciplinary Collaboration and Supporting National Priorities
The Minister emphasized Egypt’s interest in advancing interdisciplinary programs that align with the country’s national development priorities, particularly in the context of Egypt’s Sustainable Development Strategy and its Vision 2030.
Both sides agreed on the importance of increasing student exchange and expanding scholarship opportunities for students, researchers, and graduates. These initiatives play a vital role in enriching scientific and cultural exchanges, building a generation of qualified professionals who can meet the evolving demands of the labor market.
EU’s Commitment to Strengthening Cooperation in Education and Innovation
Ambassador Eichhorst expressed the EU’s commitment to deepening and expanding its strategic partnership with Egypt, focusing on areas of education and innovation that are essential for students and graduates. She emphasized the EU’s dedication to providing more opportunities for young researchers and students and widening the circle of beneficiaries.
The Ambassador commended the significant progress in Egypt’s higher education system, noting its growing leadership at the regional level. She highlighted the EU’s full support for enhancing collaboration and investment in Egypt’s human capital, especially in education, research, and innovation.
EU’s Strategic Partnership with Egypt in the Mediterranean
Ambassador Eichhorst emphasized that Egypt is the EU’s largest strategic partner in the Middle East and Africa and the second-largest partner globally. This partnership underscores the depth and significance of the relationship between the two sides. She also highlighted the importance of strengthening cooperation in science diplomacy, which fosters mutual interests and supports the exchange of knowledge and expertise.
Knowledge Transfer, Technology, and Industry-Academia Linkages
Both Dr. Ashour and Ambassador Eichhorst reiterated the importance of knowledge and technology transfer, supporting innovation and entrepreneurship, and creating effective linkages between academia and industry. These efforts align with Egypt’s National Higher Education and Scientific Research Strategy and aim to address the needs of various production sectors. Transforming knowledge into practical solutions will contribute to sustainable economic growth and job creation for graduates.
Renewing the PRIMA Agreement
The meeting also covered the renewal of the PRIMA (Partnership for Research and Innovation in the Mediterranean Area) agreement between Egypt and the EU. This agreement aims to enhance scientific and technological cooperation and promote research and innovation in the Mediterranean region, particularly in shared areas of interest such as water issues, energy, and sustainable agriculture.
.
