Egyptian Deputy Foreign Minister for Immigration and Egyptians Abroad, Ambassador Nabil Habshi, recently received a delegation from the German state of Saxony to discuss ways to activate a memorandum of understanding signed between the two parties in September 2026. The memorandum aims to enhance cooperation in the field of labor migration. During the meeting, Ambassador Habshi emphasized that the next phase targets transitioning the cooperation framework into concrete steps that link labor market needs in Saxony with the qualifications of Egyptian cadres.
The Egyptian government seeks to open up new opportunities for work and vocational training in Germany through legal and organized channels. Ambassador Habshi stressed the importance of identifying the actual needs of German business owners, enhancing private sector participation, and building on the role of the Egyptian-German Center for Jobs and Migration and Reintegration. The center plays a crucial role in facilitating cooperation between Egypt and Germany in the field of labor migration.
The German delegation, led by its head, expressed Saxony's commitment to moving forward with implementing the memorandum of understanding. He highlighted the need for skilled Egyptian labor in various sectors, including healthcare, nursing, industry, technology, construction, transportation, education, social services, and hospitality. The delegation's visit aims to explore ways to meet these labor needs through cooperation with Egypt.
During the meeting, Ambassador Habshi presented an initial Egyptian vision for the executive framework of cooperation. This framework includes forming a steering committee and an executive working group comprising relevant Egyptian authorities, with the possibility of involving private sector institutions according to cooperation areas. The Egyptian vision outlines four paths for joint work, including employing qualified Egyptian cadres according to Saxony's business owners' needs.
The four paths for cooperation also include launching a pilot phase for dual vocational training, facilitating employment procedures, and recognizing qualifications and pre-departure preparation, as well as follow-up after arrival. Additionally, the framework aims to enhance dialogue and communication between companies, educational institutions, and training centers on both sides. This cooperation is expected to benefit both countries by addressing labor shortages and providing employment opportunities.
The Egyptian-German Center for Jobs and Migration and Reintegration will likely play a key role in facilitating the implementation of the cooperation framework. The center's efforts will focus on ensuring that the needs of German business owners are met while providing Egyptian workers with vocational training and employment opportunities. This cooperation is part of a broader effort to strengthen ties between Egypt and Germany.
The discussions between Ambassador Habshi and the German delegation mark a significant step towards enhancing labor cooperation between Egypt and Saxony. By working together, both parties aim to create a win-win situation that benefits their economies and provides new opportunities for Egyptian workers. Key areas of cooperation will include healthcare, nursing, and technology, among others.
Key points
- Egypt and Saxony to enhance cooperation on labor migration and vocational training.
