Egyptian Oil Minister Karim Badawi represented President Abdel Fattah Al-Sissi at the opening ceremony of the 20th Francophonie Summit in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. The summit brings together leaders and representatives from 90 member states of the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie (OIF). Badawi was welcomed by Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn upon arrival. The summit's theme, "Investing in Peace for Shared Prosperity and Durable Stability," highlights the importance of cooperation and solidarity among member states.
The summit was inaugurated by King Norodom Sihamoni, with French President Emmanuel Macron, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, and OIF Secretary-General Louise Mushikiwabo in attendance. During the summit, Cambodia takes over the rotating presidency of the OIF for a two-year term, succeeding France. Badawi will participate in thematic plenary sessions and closed-door meetings, presenting Egypt's views on agenda items and efforts to promote peace, stability, and sustainable development. He will also emphasize the importance of cooperation within the OIF framework.
On the sidelines of the opening ceremony, Badawi held a series of meetings with several heads of state and government, as well as high-ranking officials. These discussions focused on bilateral relations and ways to strengthen cooperation, particularly in the oil and gas sectors. Egyptian Ambassador to Thailand and Cambodia Hala Youssef was present during these meetings. Badawi and French President Macron discussed Egypt-France relations, reaffirming the depth of their partnership and cooperation in various fields.
During his meeting with Macron, Badawi conveyed President Al-Sissi's greetings, emphasizing the importance of continued coordination and cooperation between Egypt and France. The two parties highlighted the need to leverage OIF mechanisms to promote dialogue and cooperation among member states. Badawi also met with Moroccan Prime Minister Fatima Zahra Mansouri, discussing fraternal and historical ties between Egypt and Morocco.
The meetings with Mansouri focused on consolidating existing cooperation and strengthening partnerships in areas such as energy, oil, and gas. Badawi's participation in the summit demonstrates Egypt's commitment to promoting peace, stability, and sustainable development within the OIF framework. The summit provides a platform for member states to engage in dialogue and cooperation on various issues.
As Egypt's representative, Badawi's presence at the summit underscores the country's role in regional and international cooperation. The OIF brings together nations with diverse backgrounds, sharing a common goal of promoting peace, stability, and development. Egypt's engagement with the OIF reflects its commitment to fostering cooperation and solidarity among member states.
The 20th Francophonie Summit will conclude with a new framework for cooperation and a strengthened commitment to promoting peace and stability among member states. Egypt, under President Al-Sissi's leadership, continues to prioritize cooperation and dialogue with international partners. The country's participation in the summit reflects its dedication to achieving shared prosperity and durable stability.
Key points
- Egypt's Oil Minister Karim Badawi represents President Abdel Fattah Al-Sissi at the 20th Francophonie Summit in Cambodia.
