The Egyptian government's annual forum concluded on October 24, 2026, with President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi announcing that the event will become a regular annual occurrence. The forum, which aimed to boost the government's morale, saw the president unveil several new commitments, including a plan to raise the minimum wage to 15,000 Egyptian pounds by the 2029-2030 fiscal year. This move is part of a broader effort to improve living standards and address economic challenges.
During the closing session of the forum, Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly became emotional while recounting a story about a child from an informal settlement who had never slept on a bed before. The child's story had a profound impact on Madbouly, who stated that the president's efforts to improve the lives of such individuals are sufficient to earn him rewards from God. The prime minister's emotional moment was widely reported in the media.
The Egyptian government has announced a series of economic and social commitments, including a plan to provide one million housing units over the next four years with investments estimated at one trillion pounds. The government also aims to increase the country's internet capacity and improve the education and healthcare systems. These commitments were made as part of a broader effort to address the country's economic challenges and improve living standards.
On the sidelines of the forum, President el-Sisi met with various stakeholders to discuss key issues affecting the country. During a meeting with the Council of Ministers, el-Sisi emphasized the importance of addressing the country's water security challenges. He stated that any bet on Egypt accepting the imposition of reality or compromising its water security is a losing bet. The president's comments came as Egypt prepares to host the Cairo Water Week.
The Cairo Water Week, now in its ninth edition, brings together experts and stakeholders to discuss key water security challenges facing the region. During the opening session, President el-Sisi emphasized Egypt's commitment to protecting its water interests. He stated that Egypt's choice to cooperate and engage in dialogue is a conscious one, based on trust in the justice of its cause and the legality of its position.
In a related development, the Egyptian parliament is set to decide on a proposal to authorize the president to send military forces to Saudi Arabia in the event of a request from Riyadh. The move is part of a broader effort to strengthen Egypt's military cooperation with Saudi Arabia. The proposal has sparked debate among lawmakers and the general public.
The Egyptian media has expressed solidarity with Saudi Arabia amid recent attacks on the kingdom. The United Media Services Company and the Egyptian Artists' Syndicate have both issued statements condemning any attempts to undermine Saudi Arabia's security and stability. The statements reflect a broader commitment to strengthening ties between Egypt and Saudi Arabia.
Key points
- The Egyptian government has committed to raising the minimum wage to 15,000 pounds by the 2029-2030 fiscal year.
- President el-Sisi has emphasized Egypt's commitment to protecting its water security and interests.
- The Egyptian parliament is set to decide on a proposal to authorize the president to send military forces to Saudi Arabia.
