Egypt’s Foreign Minister Meets with Japanese Parliamentary Friendship Association Members

جانب من لقاء وزير الخارجية.

Dr. Badr Abdel Aty, Egypt’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, met on Thursday with several members of the Japanese House of Representatives and House of Councillors who are part of the Egyptian-Japanese Parliamentary Friendship Association during his visit to Tokyo.

The minister praised the rapid development of Egyptian-Japanese relations, which were elevated to a strategic partnership in 2023. This has led to increased high-level visits and communications between the two sides, enhancing cooperation across various fields.

During the meeting, Abdel Aty emphasized Egypt’s commitment to parliamentary cooperation and commended the role of the Egyptian-Japanese Parliamentary Friendship Association in facilitating communication, sharing experiences, and supporting collaborative efforts between the two nations. He expressed eagerness to resume reciprocal parliamentary visits in the near future, inviting the association’s president and members to visit Egypt for meetings with Egyptian parliamentary leaders and to tour the new headquarters of both houses in the New Administrative Capital.

Abdel Aty also discussed Japan’s support for major developmental projects in Egypt, including the Grand Egyptian Museum, partnerships in education at various levels, and the fourth metro line project. He highlighted how these initiatives exemplify successful bilateral cooperation and contribute directly to economic and social development efforts. He stressed the importance of further enhancing collaboration in areas of mutual interest, particularly education, technology, and localizing industries.

The minister reviewed key developments in the Egyptian economy amid ongoing economic reforms that have enhanced national competitiveness and increased foreign investment appeal. He expressed hope that association members would play a supportive role in encouraging Japanese companies to seize promising investment opportunities available in Egypt across various sectors, especially within the Suez Canal Economic Zone and other economic zones offering competitive incentives for investors.

The meeting also included an exchange of views on regional developments in the Middle East, covering issues such as Gaza, Iran, Syria, Yemen, Lebanon, as well as Egyptian water security concerns.

Additionally, Ms. Kuniko Inoguchi, a prominent member of Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party and member of the Japanese-Egyptian Parliamentary Association, delivered remarks on behalf of former Prime Minister Taro Aso. She expressed appreciation for the historical ties between Egypt and Japan and commended the evolving strategic partnership across various sectors. Inoguchi affirmed the association’s commitment to supporting efforts that enhance bilateral cooperation for mutual benefit.