Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgi Meloni is poised to embark on a visit to Cairo, Egypt, starting tomorrow, with the primary objective of signing agreements spanning various sectors.
This initiative is part of the MATI plan, designed to tackle the root causes of irregular migration, as reported by the Italian news agency Nova.
Meloni’s visit to Egypt falls within the broader context of a European delegation led by President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen.
The delegation, which includes the Prime Ministers of Italy, Belgium, and Greece, aims to discuss reinforcing European partnership with Cairo.
Discussions during the visit will cover a range of topics, including migrants, energy, climate, and investments, with reports suggesting the announcement of a 7.4 billion Euro aid package from the European Union.
In her briefing at the Kigi Palace control room regarding the MATI plan, Meloni expressed her anticipation for the visit, highlighting bilateral cooperation activities scheduled for Sunday.
These activities will focus on agricultural and training fields, alongside agreements related to health, support for small and medium-sized enterprises, and investments.
Simultaneously, the new offices of the Italian Embassy in Cairo and the headquarters of the Italian Export Credit Agency “SACE” and SIMEST in the Nile City Towers will be inaugurated.
Eric Mamer, the European Commission spokesperson, emphasized Egypt’s significance as a crucial partner, particularly in addressing migration pressures and advancing cooperation in energy and climate agendas.
The anticipated 7.4 billion Euro aid package aims to support Egypt’s economy amidst concerns arising from conflicts in Gaza and Sudan, potentially exacerbating financial strains and migration pressures on Europe.
This initiative follows a memorandum of understanding signed in 2023 between the European Union and Tunisia, addressing migration and economic development issues for both parties.
The European initiative complements economic support received by Egypt from the United Arab Emirates and the International Monetary Fund.
With Egypt’s strategic geographic location and its population exceeding 106 million, stability in the country is essential for regional and European stakeholders, given its significance in various sectors, including migration and energy supplies.
The international community remains concerned about Egypt’s financial situation, with external debt reaching $164.5 billion in September 2023.
Inflation rates surged to 36% in February, prompting the Central Bank to adopt a flexible exchange rate regime.
In conclusion, Meloni’s visit underscores efforts to strengthen collaboration between Georgia and Egypt within the broader framework of European partnerships, aiming to address shared challenges and enhance economic stability in the region.
