Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi participated in the opening session of the 8th Mid-Year Coordinating Meeting of the African Union and Regional Economic Communities in the New El Alamein City. The meeting brought together African leaders, including heads of state and government, as well as representatives of regional economic communities. The session focused on the African Union's 2026 theme of "ensuring sustainable water availability and safe sanitation systems to achieve the goals of Agenda 2063."
In his opening remarks, President Sisi emphasized the importance of coordination between the African Union, regional economic communities, and member states to achieve sustainable development. He highlighted the need for a unified approach to address the challenges facing the continent, including terrorism, extremism, and organized crime. Sisi also stressed the importance of respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of African countries.
President Sisi noted that the African continent has the potential to transform its resources into opportunities for development. He cited the example of El Alamein, which has been transformed from a war-torn area to a hub for investment and development. Sisi called for the African Union to focus on building the capacity of its member states to address the challenges of conflict and underdevelopment.
The Egyptian President emphasized the need for a coordinated approach to managing transboundary rivers, citing the importance of international law in this regard. He stressed that each country has the right to develop and utilize its natural resources, but this right must be exercised responsibly and without harm to other countries. Sisi's remarks were echoed by the African Union's theme for 2026, which focuses on sustainable water availability and safe sanitation systems.
President Sisi also highlighted the importance of economic integration in achieving peace and stability in Africa. He called for the full implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement, which aims to create a single, unified market for African countries. Sisi noted that economic integration can help to increase trade, investment, and economic growth, and reduce poverty and inequality.
In addition to his remarks on economic integration, President Sisi also emphasized the need for African countries to work together to address the challenges of conflict and post-conflict reconstruction. He noted that Egypt, as a champion of post-conflict reconstruction, is committed to supporting efforts to rebuild and develop countries affected by conflict.
The meeting also saw the launch of the "El Alamein - Africa Business Forum," which aims to promote economic cooperation and investment between African countries. The forum is expected to provide a platform for African leaders, business leaders, and investors to discuss opportunities for economic growth and development. President Sisi invited participants to attend the second edition of the forum, which will be held in Egypt in 2028.
Key points
- President Sisi calls for the management of transboundary rivers to be based on international law.
- The African Union's 2026 theme focuses on sustainable water availability and safe sanitation systems.
- President Sisi emphasizes the importance of economic integration and the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement.
