Egypt Seeks to Elevate Ties with Germany to Strategic Partnership

Egypt is looking to upgrade its bilateral relationship with Germany to the level of a strategic partnership, Foreign Minister Badr Abdel Ati announced Friday during high-level talks in Cairo with his German counterpart Johann Wadephul.

Speaking at a joint press conference, Abdel Ati described Egyptian-German relations as “exemplary and extremely important,” highlighting significant progress in cooperation across multiple sectors in recent years. He noted that the German foreign minister’s decision to begin his regional tour in Cairo reflects the strength and depth of the countries’ ties.

During the talks, both ministers led expanded delegations to discuss bilateral cooperation, regional developments, and international issues of mutual concern — with particular attention given to the ongoing crisis in the Gaza Strip.

The minister emphasized Egypt’s growing economic ties with Germany, underscoring the contributions of more than 1,600 German companies operating in Egypt. These firms are active in strategic sectors including automotive manufacturing, conventional and renewable energy, and the emerging field of green hydrogen.

“Our partnership with Germany has played a vital role in modernizing Egypt’s economy,” Abdel Aty said. He expressed hope that the relationship would soon be formally upgraded to a strategic partnership, reflecting the level of coordination and shared priorities between the two nations.

He cited a recent phone conversation between President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz as evidence of the deepening relationship, adding that Egypt is keen to see enhanced cooperation in development, investment, and trade.

Among the key topics discussed was the second tranche of the Egypt-Germany debt swap agreement, which is expected to be finalized soon. The funds, to be paid in Egyptian pounds, will be directed toward domestic development projects. Both sides also explored mechanisms to increase trade volume and German investments in Egypt, positioning the country as a strategic gateway to African markets.

Abdel Ati also highlighted Egypt’s efforts to localize industry, part of its broader national development strategy, and invited greater German participation in the process. He pointed to Egypt’s preferential trade access under frameworks such as the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), COMESA, and the Arab Free Trade Area as additional incentives for German investors.