Egypt, India discuss Enhancing Agricultural Ties, Investment

Egypt's Ministers of Agriculture and Land Reclamation, Alaa Farouq, and Water Resources and Irrigation, Hani Sewilam, held discussions with representatives from various Indian companies and organizations specializing in agriculture and water management. 

The purpose of these talks was to explore opportunities for cooperation in sustainable agriculture and integrated water resources management.

The meeting reviewed both existing and proposed collaboration areas, including the establishment of a Centre of Excellence aimed at research and training on millet cultivation, which is a drought- and climate-resilient cereal crop. 

Furthermore, the discussions covered a digital agriculture project and an initiative to produce biodegradable tableware from rice straw. They also explored mechanisms to utilize available funding under a bilateral memorandum of understanding, which includes a dedicated credit line to support joint initiatives involving Indian companies.

Both ministers emphasized the need to accelerate the implementation of joint projects and to address any obstacles that may hinder effective cooperation. They also called for organizing a field visit to Upper Egypt to evaluate opportunities for expanding millet cultivation. This initiative is part of efforts to enhance food security in the face of increasingly challenging climate conditions.

The Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation shared updates on Egypt’s ongoing efforts in rainwater and flood harvesting projects as well as initiatives to maximize the use of available water resources to support agricultural development, aligning with sustainable water management policies. He highlighted the importance of leveraging modern technologies and artificial intelligence to enhance the efficiency of water and land management, thereby advancing sustainable development goals.

The meeting also discussed a proposal from the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) to establish a regional Centre of Excellence in Egypt, which would serve North and West Africa. Furthermore, there is a plan to create a specialized research laboratory focused on water applications, artificial intelligence, and land management, to develop innovative solutions for food and water security.