Al-Mashat highlights 70 years of Egyptian-Japanese cooperation
Egypt's Minister of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation, Rania Al-Mashat, participated in a high-level event in Tokyo celebrating 70 years of Egyptian-Japanese development cooperation. Organized by Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the event marked a significant milestone in bilateral relations and set the stage for expanded economic and strategic collaboration.
In her keynote address, Minister Al-Mashat emphasized the enduring strength of Egyptian-Japanese relations and their shared commitment to addressing development challenges. “Egyptian-Japanese partnerships reflect the importance of collaborative efforts to tackle development challenges,” Al-Mashat stated, highlighting the alignment of shared visions and priorities that have driven progress across key sectors.
She noted that cooperation has evolved significantly, particularly under the leadership of H.E. President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, culminating in the 2023 elevation of ties to a *strategic partnership*. This development has broadened economic opportunities, paving the way for a new era of diversified investments.
Al-Mashat also underscored the synergy between Japan’s support and Egypt’s *Vision 2030*, a national framework for sustainable economic and social development. Japanese funding has supported pivotal projects, including the Comprehensive Health Insurance Project, metro lines, and the Grand Egyptian Museum, reflecting advancements in priority sectors like education, renewable energy, infrastructure, and human capital development.
Looking ahead, the Minister stressed that *economic development* and *private sector empowerment* will remain focal points in bilateral cooperation. The Egyptian government aims to increase private sector contributions to 65% of the economy within three years, creating new opportunities for Japanese investments.
“The government is fully committed to supporting Japanese private sector investments, improving the business environment, and fostering partnerships between Japanese financial institutions and Egypt’s private sector,” Al-Mashat affirmed.
She further positioned Egypt as a strategic gateway for Japanese investments and exports to Africa and the Middle East, emphasizing the importance of South-South and triangular cooperation to accelerate regional development. “Egypt serves as a gateway for Japanese investments, offering access to African markets through collaborative frameworks,” Al-Mashat added.