Egypt Deepens Economic and Diplomatic Ties in West Africa Through Ministerial Tour

Egypt’s Foreign Minister, Sameh Abdelatty, has embarked on a diplomatic and economic tour across five key West African nations—Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Niger, Mali, and Senegal—as part of Cairo's broader strategy to strengthen partnerships across the African continent.

During his stop in Nigeria, Abdelatty is expected to engage in high-level talks with senior government officials, representatives of regional organizations, key figures from the Nigerian business community, and members of the Egyptian diaspora. The visit underscores Egypt’s commitment to reinforcing ties with West African nations through multi-sector collaboration.

The minister is accompanied by a delegation of 30 top executives and representatives from leading Egyptian companies spanning energy, construction, healthcare, and infrastructure. This public-private partnership reflects Egypt’s strategy to expand trade and investment links across Africa.

The Foreign Ministry noted that the tour demonstrates Cairo’s focus on supporting sustainable development and promoting regional stability, in line with its growing role in continental affairs.

This regional outreach follows Egypt’s active involvement in the 47th Ordinary Session of the African Union Executive Council. There, President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi and Minister Abdelatty held multiple bilateral meetings with African leaders to deepen cooperation on shared priorities.

One of the key highlights from the AU session was President El-Sisi's announcement of the launch of the NEPAD Centre of Excellence for Climate Initiatives in Cairo. The center is intended to support African countries in building resilience and adapting to climate change, marking a strategic milestone in Egypt’s climate leadership on the continent.

“Amid ongoing global and regional challenges, Africa remains a continent rich in potential and opportunities for sustainable growth,” President El-Sisi said during the session.

Foreign Minister Abdelatty emphasized the importance of mobilizing Egyptian expertise to support African development goals. He particularly highlighted the role of the Egyptian Agency of Partnership for Development (EAPD), which coordinates technical assistance, training, and knowledge-sharing programs throughout Africa.

Founded in 2014, the EAPD also champions the role of Egypt’s private sector in contributing to African trade and investment, with a focus on unlocking economic growth and empowering local industries.

Through these efforts, Egypt aims to cement its position as a strategic development partner to African nations and a gateway for regional cooperation and prosperity.