On Friday, October 2, 2026, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdellati participated in a high-level discussion on the role of economic diplomacy in transforming relationships and partnerships into tangible trade and investment opportunities. The session took place on the sidelines of the Africa El-Salam forum. The discussion was co-facilitated with several high-ranking officials, including Egyptian Minister of Investment and Foreign Trade Mohamed Fares.
The high-level discussion involved several prominent African and international officials. These included Angolan Foreign Minister Tete Antonio, Burundian Foreign Minister Edward Bizimana - who is also the current chair of the African Union, and Nigerian Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Odo-Rafiu Enikanolaiye. Others in attendance were US Senior Advisor to the President for Arab and African Affairs Mesad Boulos, African Union Deputy Chairperson Salma Hadadi, Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa President Abdullah Al-Museibeh.
During the session, Abdellati emphasized methods to activate economic diplomacy tools to promote trade and investment in Africa. The goal is to transform existing political momentum and partnerships into concrete projects and economic opportunities. The discussion also explored mechanisms for mobilizing financing and resources. Furthermore, it underscored the role of the private sector and the importance of development banks and international financial institutions.
Abdellati highlighted that economic diplomacy is a key driver of development in Africa. It leverages political relationships and existing partnerships to mobilize resources, financing, and investments. This approach links priority projects and opportunities to sources of financing and implementation. It also utilizes continental frameworks, most notably the African Continental Free Trade Area.
The Egyptian Foreign Minister stressed the pivotal role of the private sector in leading growth. This includes creating jobs, enhancing intra-African trade and investment, and developing continental value chains. Abdellati also emphasized the vital role of development banks and international financial institutions. These entities are crucial in mobilizing financing and stimulating investment.
The discussion also focused on forging more effective partnerships between governments, business communities, and financial institutions. Such partnerships are essential for supporting economic integration and sustainable development in Africa. The participants underscored the need for collaboration to address development challenges.
The high-level discussion on economic diplomacy in Africa concluded with a renewed commitment to enhancing trade and investment. The participants recognized the importance of economic diplomacy in achieving sustainable development and economic integration in Africa. They also emphasized the need for continued collaboration and coordination among governments, international organizations, and the private sector.
Key points
- Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdellati participates in high-level discussion on economic diplomacy's role in enhancing trade and investment in Africa.
- The discussion emphasizes the role of the private sector in leading growth and creating jobs.
- Development banks and international financial institutions are crucial in mobilizing financing and stimulating investment.
