EU Ambassador Reaffirms Strong Ties with Egypt

In her first official visit to Ismailia city, European Union (EU) Ambassador to Egypt, Angelina Eichhorst expressed her great pleasure at being in this historic city, home to one of the world’s most important maritime passages.

She emphasized that this visit is more than a ceremonial tour, it reflects the EU’s deep commitment to its partnership with Egypt and its readiness to support the country in addressing economic, developmental, and environmental challenges.

Speaking during a panel discussion that included several European ambassadors, the Governor of Ismailia, and officials from the Suez Canal Authority, the Ambassador said: “I’m delighted to be here on my first visit to Ismailia as EU Ambassador. We’re a large delegation representing 26 member states, which highlights just how important our relationship with Egypt is.”

Moreover, EU Ambassador noted that the delegation listened to speeches by the Governor of Ismailia and the Chairman of the Suez Canal Authority, in addition to holding a key meeting with Egypt’s Prime Minister.

“We received a thorough explanation of the canal’s history, development, and future vision. We all came away deeply impressed,” she said.

She also emphasized that the Suez Canal is not only a vital maritime route but also a historical symbol with immense strategic and economic significance for Egypt and the world.

“Many of the ambassadors told me they learned a great deal today about the canal’s operations and challenges, and the impressive way the Authority is managing this critical asset," Eichhorst stressed.

Furthermore, EU Ambassador highlighted that one of the main goals of the visit was to explore the tourism potential of the Suez Canal region.

“We see great opportunity in including Ismailia in European tourism programs. The location is unique, the history is rich, and infrastructure is visibly improving,” she stated.

She also noted the delegation observed several investment projects en route to the city, expressing hope that this momentum can be further boosted with European support for infrastructure and cultural tourism development.

Responding to a question about maritime security in the Red Sea and its connection to the Suez Canal, EU Ambassador confirmed that the EU has launched “Operation Aspides” to protect commercial vessels in the Red Sea.

“We can’t protect every ship, of course, but we’ve already provided naval escorts for a significant number over the past year, helping to ensure continued trade flow through the canal,” she said.

On the economic front, Eichhorst underscored that EU is Egypt’s largest trading partner. “We have a solid trade relationship, and given the current geopolitical challenges, we need each other now more than ever,” she remarked.

She also revealed that the EU is finalizing procedures to disburse a financial package worth €4 billion as part of a broader strategic partnership with Egypt.

“The European Parliament has approved it, and we’re now waiting for final approval from the European Council to move forward,” she explained.

EU Ambassador further discussed several environmental projects announced during the visit, including efforts to combat pollution and promote sustainable fishing.

She emphasized that “investment in the green economy remains a top priority despite global challenges,” and denied any retreat from these goals.

She added that even European industries now rely on clean technologies and that the EU is working closely with the Egyptian government to create a favorable environment for green investment. “Egypt’s Minister of Environment has confirmed the country’s full commitment to this agenda,” she said.

Addressing the Palestinian situation, Eichhorst said the EU has allocated €1.6 billion to support the Palestinian Authority over the next three years. “This includes aid for both Gaza and the West Bank, along with assistance in institutional reform,” she stated.

She also affirmed the EU’s ongoing coordination with regional and international partners to seek a comprehensive political solution and noted that the EU is participating in preparations for an international conference in New York on the matter.

The Ambassador praised Egypt’s ongoing economic reforms despite their challenges. “The Egyptian government is working to stabilize the economy, and we support those efforts in coordination with the IMF,” she said.

She pointed out that European investments in Egypt now span multiple sectors including energy, industry, agriculture, health, and digital technology.

“There’s a real view of Egypt as a hub for industrial investment, thanks to its skilled labor and developing infrastructure,” she added.

“We need to scale up what’s already working, and that’s exactly what we intend to do as true partners,” the Ambassador concluded.