On Sunday, Egypt and the European Union (EU) agreed to enhance their relationship to the level of a strategic and comprehensive partnership. This new phase in their longstanding relationship is based on mutual values of equity, respect, and trust, aiming to deepen their ties of stability, peace, and prosperity.
Acknowledging Egypt's pivotal role as a cornerstone of security and moderation in the Mediterranean, Near East, and Africa, both parties are set to formalize this upgraded partnership with a comprehensive Strategic Partnership Document in early 2024. This detailed agreement will cover key areas such as political relations, economic stability, sustainable trade and investment, energy, climate change, migration, security, and the development of human capital.
Politically, both Egypt and the EU commit to furthering democracy, human rights, gender equality, and equal opportunities. The EU has pledged support for Egypt's implementation of its National Strategy for Human Rights, in line with their existing Association Agreement and partnership priorities for 2021-2027. Enhanced political dialogue will be facilitated through biennial summits and annual Association Council meetings, strengthening the framework for bilateral engagement.
Economically, the EU supports Egypt's vision for 2030, aiming to foster macro-economic stability and sustainable growth. This support extends to addressing immediate stabilization needs and medium-term economic development through budget support, concessional finance, and grants. Investment cooperation will focus on sectors vital for a modern economy like renewable energy, agriculture, digitalization, and food security, with the EU committing to significant investments to boost Egypt's role in global trade, particularly through the strategic Suez Canal.
The partnership also encompasses collaboration in trade, aiming to maximize the benefits of the Free Trade Area under the Association Agreement and considering its modernization to meet current challenges.
Water management, a critical issue for Egypt, will see bilateral, regional, and international cooperation, especially in light of Egypt's reliance on the Nile River and the challenges of climate change and population growth.
On migration, the EU will provide financial support for comprehensive programs, emphasizing legal pathways, combating smuggling and trafficking, and supporting Egypt's refugee hosting efforts.
Security cooperation will address challenges such as terrorism and organized crime, with plans for deeper cooperation in law enforcement and the protection of cultural heritage.
Finally, the partnership will support education, training, and research innovation, aligning Egypt's human capital development with labor market needs and encouraging participation in European programs like Erasmus+ and Horizon Europe.
This strategic and comprehensive partnership marks a significant step forward in Egypt-EU relations, aiming to tackle contemporary challenges while unlocking the full potential of their collaboration for mutual and regional benefit.
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