The Minister of Communications and Information Technology Yasser ElKady has received the Ambassador of Switzerland to Egypt Markus Leitner, where they discussed means of promoting aspects of joint cooperation in the ICT areas.
During the meeting, ElKady reviewed the role of communications and information technology (ICT) sector in the development process, key developments during the recent period, projects currently carried out and investment opportunities in new technology parks. This is in addition to discussing the possibility of cooperation between the two countries in a number of issues related to the sector, especially establishing smart buildings and financial transactions using mobile applications such as mobile money.
The minister also discussed plans and mechanisms of joint action and coordination with concerned entities to activate the MoU signed by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) with the Swiss Embassy earlier this month on cooperation in promoting e-waste recycling industries in Egypt. It is reflected positively on achieving the objectives of the Green ICT programme implemented by MCIT and the Ministry of Environment since 2010.
According to MoU terms, the Swiss government contributes to providing financial support to implement a number of projects to support e-waste recycling industries in Egypt. E-waste recycling is within the framework of MCIT plan to contribute to developing sustainable development policies and driving economic growth through encouraging investment in green technology, setting foundations and national policies for recycling and sustainable management of e-waste in Egypt. This is in addition to raising community awareness on the eco-friendly ICTs and building the capacity of calibers specialized in the green ICT field.
