Italian PM’s Visit to Egypt: Fostering Renewed Cooperation
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Salma Hossein
- . March 25, 2024
- . Update: March 25, 2024 7:29 pm
The recent visit of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to Egypt has ushered in a new era of cooperation between the two nations. This visit has been hailed as a turning point, paving the way for enhanced cooperation across various sectors and laying the groundwork for a stronger partnership between Egypt and the European Union.
Strengthening Cooperation with the EU as Italian PM Visits Egypt
A key highlight of the Italian PM’s visit was Italy’s pivotal role in facilitating the issuance of a joint declaration between Egypt and the EU. This declaration aims to bolster cooperation in addressing regional challenges. The comprehensive strategic partnership between Egypt and the EU, backed by finances worth 7.4 billion euros, underscores the commitment to fostering cooperation on a broader scale.
Agreements for Multifaceted Cooperation
During her visit, Prime Minister Meloni signed 17 agreements, marking the first steps towards implementing the “Mattei Plan for Africa.” This plan, dubbed a “non-predatory” approach, seeks to strengthen cooperation in various sectors, including:
1. Cooperation in Sustainable Agriculture: Initiatives to promote sustainable agricultural practices and enhance food security through cooperative efforts.
2. Financial Cooperation for SMEs: Providing financial assistance to small and medium-sized enterprises, driving economic growth and job creation through collaborative measures.
3. Infrastructure Cooperation: Developing and upgrading infrastructure through cooperation initiatives to support economic development and connectivity.
4. Vocational Training Cooperation: Enhancing human capital through skills development and training programs facilitated by cooperation between the two nations.
5. Cooperation for Inclusion: Promoting the integration of persons with disabilities into society and ensuring equal opportunities through cooperative efforts.
Cooperation in the Middle East Peace Process
Recognizing the importance of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, Italy has reiterated its support for the two-state solution, seen as the only viable path to achieving lasting peace and security for both sides. Prime Minister Meloni and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani have expressed Italy’s willingness, in cooperation with the EU, to contribute to achieving this goal for a sustainable future in the region.
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Humanitarian Cooperation for Gaza
In a display of humanitarian cooperation, Italy has pledged to work closely with Egypt to alleviate the impact of the crisis in Gaza. The “Food for Gaza” initiative, launched by the Italian Foreign Ministry in cooperation with international organizations, aims to deliver critical food aid and ensure food security in the besieged enclave through joint cooperative efforts.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s visit to Egypt has paved the way for renewed and strengthened cooperation between the two nations, as well as between Egypt and the EU. The comprehensive agreements signed during the visit lay the foundation for a multifaceted approach to addressing regional challenges, promoting economic development, and fostering peace and stability in the Middle East through cooperative efforts.
As the bilateral ties between Italy and Egypt continue to deepen, the region stands to benefit from the cooperation of these strategic partners.
