PM: Gov't's Plan Averted Egypt Many Economic Pressures in Addressing Coronavirus

On Monday, Egyptian Prime Minister, Mustafa Madbouly, confirmed that the government had two primary focuses in addressing the coronavirus crisis, namely preserving the health of citizens and accelerating the economy.

During his speech before the House of Representatives, Madbouly stated, "Had it not been for the government plan, we would have suffered from poor economic conditions," noting that Egypt had become one of the best world countries in dealing with the corona pandemic and also one of the least affected countries by its repercussions.

He pointed out that Egypt achieved the second positive growth rate worldwide in 2020 after China, as all international institutions praised the Egyptian growth rates, especially since most countries had negative rates.

He explained that the government had pumped EGP 11 billion to support the medical sector and EGP 2.8 billion to provide the requirements of medical supplies and equipment, in addition to providing EGP 400 million to fill the deficit in the number of employees in hospitals and to appoint new staffs.

The Premier also emphasized that the government had succeeded in developing 76 fever and chest hospitals, and turned them into isolation hospitals for coronavirus patients.

Madbouly pointed out that a strategic reserve of staples and foodstuffs were secured enough for 4 to 6 months, while the oils and meat's reserve would be enough for more than 9 months.

"We have managed to achieve high and positive growth rate. As a government, we are fully aware that there is much to be done to achieve development and meet the aspiration of the Egyptian people," he noted.

The Prime Minister confirmed, "We are facing challenges date back to more than 50 years and we have addressed many serious political issues and developed solutions them for the sake of our homeland-Egypt."

"Work is underway on a developmental project to transform Egypt, who is the largest non-OPEC oil producer in Africa, into a regional center for gas and oil trade," Madbouly stated.

During the meeting, Madbouly also reiterated the government’s commitment to developing proper sewage systems and completing the construction of seawater desalination plants.

Madbouly’s remarks come after a harsh rainy season brought floods to multiple areas of the country, causing extended road closures and costing the government thousands in property damage.

Madbouly vowed that the government would boost economic development in Egypt, reinforce Egypt’s national security, implement intensive social protection programmes, raise productivity rates, and improve the standard of living of poor citizens.

Madbouly said, “we will create a job for every poor citizen as long as he is able to work, but if he is living below the poverty line and it’s hard for him to work, we will do our best to take care of him.”