Egyptian ambassador to ANA-MPA: Expanding a strategic Greek-Egyptian relationship to connect Alexandria with Piraeus

Athens.- The content of the strategic relations between Greece and Egypt and the possibilities of their further deepening with an emphasis on culture and shipping, and their reflection on security stability in the Eastern Mediterranean region, is highlighted by the Egyptian ambassador in Athens, Omar Amer Youssef, in an interview to Athens-Macedonian Press Agency (ANA-MPA) and journalist Dimitris Manolis published on Sunday.

Asked to comment on what he meant by ‘strategic relationship’, the ambassador replied that the two countries have gone beyond the usual bilateral relations and cooperate in depth in different fields.

Regular consultations between Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis are crucial for fostering diplomatic ties, addressing shared challenges, and promoting regional stability, he further said. These interactions provide a platform for collaboration on political, economic, and strategic fronts, strengthening the relationship between the two countries.

Bilateral relations, the ambassador noted, provide a platform for deeper cooperation both in customary areas, but also extend to new ones, such as energy, investment, data transfer, IT, agriculture, industry, and tourism.

The ambassador of Egypt described the relationship between Egypt and Greece as a robust and comprehensive strategic partnership, solidified by recent diplomatic and economic developments. In particular, the recent visit of Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis to Cairo and the meeting with his Egyptian counterpart Sameh Shoukry marked a pivotal moment, signifying the commitment of both nations to further enhance cooperation and deep their ties, the diplomat noted.

One key aspect of this burgeoning relationship is the ambitious electrical interconnection project, which has been recently endorsed by the European Union for inclusion under projects of mutual interest (PMI). This groundbreaking project aims to connect Egypt with Europe through Greece, fostering a stronger energy alliance; this energy collaboration, the ambassador noted, promises mutual benefits, establishing a resilient energy network that transcends geographical boundaries and strengthens the strategic alliance between Cairo and Athens.

Furthermore, the Seasonal Workers Agreement, which was signed in Cairo in 2022, stands as another testament to the growing ties between Egypt and Greece, he added. This agreement not only addresses the practical aspect of labor mobility but also signifies the mutual understanding and trust between the two nations. Collaboration in this area promotes economic development, combating the illegal migrations and creating a foundation for sustained collaboration.

The initiative to link ports in both countries is another promising field of cooperation, as it is a vital component of the comprehensive strategic relationship. This connection, the Egyptian diplomat noted, does not simply facilitate trade and commerce, but it enhances the efficiency of transport, ensuring a seamless flow of goods between Egypt and Greece. Shared ports signify a commitment to fostering economic growth and promoting regional stability through strengthen logistical networks, he added.

Moreover, the increased focus on investments further cements the depth of this historical relationship between Greece and Egypt, the ambassador said, stressing that both countries recognize the potential for economic growth through joint ventures and investments.

This commitment to shared prosperity, the ambassador noted, solidifies the strategic nature of the two countries’ collaboration, paving the way for sustainable development and increased economic interdependence.

In addition to these successful and key cooperation projects, the Egyptian ambassador pointed out that there were opportunities for further development of relations in culture, tourism, shipping, and the connection of the ports of the two countries.

Ambassador Omar Amer Youssef made a special reference to the prospects of deepening cooperation in the field of culture, specifically, revealing that this year the two countries are considering launching a Greek-Egypt cultural tourism year, to bring the two peoples and cultures closer together. As he pointed out, “We have the Pyramids, you have the Acropolis. How will we connect the Acropolis with the Pyramids?”.

Finally, the Egyptian ambassador underlined the fact that the projects implemented jointly by the two countries reflect how deep their cooperation is, therefore proving in practice that their ties are not simply historical, but that there is a strategic relationship, shaping a future of shared prosperity and mutual benefit.
Source:amna.gr