Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa met in New Alamein on the sidelines of the eighth African Union Mid-Year Coordination Meeting. They discussed expanding economic, trade, and investment ties between the two countries. The meeting aimed to strengthen private-sector cooperation and promote African economic integration and development. The leaders welcomed the formation of a bilateral business council to enhance cooperation between Egypt and South Africa.
Al-Sisi emphasized Cairo's desire to activate existing cooperation frameworks with South Africa and broaden ties across various sectors. He expressed support for African economic integration and development. Ramaphosa stated that South Africa is keen to deepen cooperation and coordination with Egypt, citing shared positions on several African and international issues. The two leaders also discussed ways to promote trade and investment between their countries.
The business council's establishment is expected to boost economic ties between Egypt and South Africa. However, the Egyptian presidency did not specify when the council would begin operating or which sectors it would prioritize. No new trade or investment agreements were announced during the meeting. The leaders' discussions focused on strengthening private-sector cooperation and promoting economic integration.
Ramaphosa invited Al-Sisi to make a state visit to South Africa. The two leaders also discussed the Palestinian issue, with Al-Sisi praising South Africa's position. Ramaphosa noted that Pretoria's stance on the issue was influenced by Egypt's historic position. Their discussions highlighted the importance of cooperation on African and international issues.
The meeting covered other key topics, including irregular migration and its pressures on states. The leaders called for the peaceful settlement of conflicts and stronger regional security and stability. This would enable African countries to direct more resources towards sustainable development and improving living standards. They emphasized the need for cooperation on regional and global challenges.
Al-Sisi and Ramaphosa reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing economic cooperation and promoting African development. Their discussions reflected a shared vision for strengthening ties between Egypt and South Africa. The business council is expected to play a key role in promoting trade and investment between the two countries.
The meeting between Al-Sisi and Ramaphosa demonstrated a strong commitment to cooperation between Egypt and South Africa. The leaders' discussions covered a range of topics, from economic ties to regional security and stability. The establishment of the business council marked a significant step towards enhancing economic cooperation between the two countries.
Key points
- - The Egyptian and South African presidents welcomed the formation of a bilateral business council to enhance cooperation between their countries. - The leaders discussed expanding economic, trade, and investment ties, as well as promoting African economic integration and development. - The meeting covered various topics, including irregular migration, regional security, and the Palestinian issue.
