On a warm evening in Cairo, the German Embassy’s Residence Garden was alive with celebration as diplomats, government officials, and business leaders gathered for a special occasion—the Day of German Unity. The event was graced by the presence of Bavaria’s Minister-President, Dr. Markus Söder, alongside other distinguished guests, all welcomed by Germany's Ambassador to Egypt.
The celebration, marking the 34th anniversary of Germany’s reunification, reflected not only on a pivotal moment in German history but also on the deep and growing partnership between Germany and Egypt. In his remarks, the German Ambassador highlighted the enduring and multifaceted relationship between the two nations. "Germany and Egypt enjoy a partnership built on mutual respect and trust," he said, noting how their cooperation has flourished across political, economic, cultural, and educational spheres.
The strength of this partnership was evident in numerous areas. Educational collaboration stands out, with two German-Egyptian universities now hosting more than 17,000 students. This spring, the ambitious “100 Egyptian-German Schools” project was launched, set to enhance educational ties even further and provide new opportunities for both nations.
Economic relations have also thrived. In 2023, trade between Germany and Egypt surged by 23%, reaching nearly 7 billion euros. German companies play a crucial role in Egypt's infrastructure and energy projects, contributing significantly to the country's modernization efforts. The partnership is not one-sided—soon, Egypt will begin exporting hydrogen to Germany, supporting Germany’s shift toward decarbonization.
Tourism is another area of robust connection. Last year, 1.5 million German tourists visited Egypt, reaffirming Egypt’s status as a top destination for German travelers. These examples, the Ambassador noted, are clear indicators of the strong bond between the two nations, with much more potential for growth in the years ahead.
The celebratory mood at the Unity Day event was also a moment for reflection on the state of the world. The war in Ukraine, now dragging on for nearly 1,000 days, has claimed countless lives and left much of the country in ruins. Germany remains steadfast in its support for Ukraine, both bilaterally and through partnerships in NATO, the European Union, and the G7, as it works towards achieving a just and lasting peace.