A joint statement released by the Egyptian presidency highlighted the commitment of both nations to bolster their economic partnership. “The two sides affirmed their dedication to supporting the economic partnership between the two countries. They agreed to work towards a package of direct Qatari investments totaling $7.5 billion, to be implemented over the next phase,” it read.
President El-Sisi’s visit was marked by high-level meetings with key figures from the Qatari business community, including H.E. Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, the Qatari Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs. Addressing global economic challenges, President El-Sisi emphasized the importance of Arab economic integration in facing the pandemic’s aftermath and ongoing regional tensions. “These times call for unity and collaboration among Arab nations to strengthen our economies,” he stated.
President El-Sisi encouraged Qatari investors to explore Egypt’s strategic investment opportunities, citing the country’s advantageous geographic location, competitive workforce, and supportive legislative environment. He identified sectors such as IT, renewable energy, manufacturing, and tourism as ripe for investment, emphasizing Egypt’s stable and secure environment as a robust platform for foreign investments.
Highlighting Egypt’s impressive infrastructure development, Eng. Hassan El-Khatib, Minister of Investment and Foreign Trade, detailed the country’s $550 billion investment in road networks, ports, and new cities over the past decade. El-Khatib also discussed policy measures aimed at economic stability and growth, including inflation control and fiscal reforms, underscoring Egypt’s ambition to enter the top 50 nations in global trade indicators.
The discussions between President El-Sisi and Qatari business leaders focused on strengthening trade and investment ties, with El-Sisi assuring that recent economic reforms have eased capital flow restrictions, thereby enhancing investor confidence. He also shared Egypt’s ambitious tourism goals, leveraging the country’s cultural assets to boost tourist numbers.
President El-Sisi invited Qatari partners to consider investments in multiple sectors, including logistics, agriculture, automotive, education, and healthcare. He highlighted ongoing projects like logistics hubs linking the Red and Mediterranean Seas, and substantial agricultural initiatives. The President advocated for partnerships in electric vehicle manufacturing and higher education, aligning with Egypt’s technological and energy objectives.
Concluding the meeting, President El-Sisi underscored the positive trajectory of Egyptian-Qatari economic relations, inviting Qatari investors to join Egypt’s path towards development and prosperity. “Egypt stands ready to welcome Qatari investments that will drive mutual growth and success,” he stated, positioning Egypt as a gateway to promising opportunities in the Arab world.
