Makram, Australian Amb. Discuss “Lifeboats” Initiative

Minister of Immigration and Egyptian Expatriates' Affairs Nabila Makram met Australian ambassador to Egypt Glenn Miles.

They discussed ways to enhance cooperation between both countries, in addition to key issues of common interests.

At the outset of the meeting, Makram offered her sincere condolences and sympathy to Miles over victims of Australia’s bushfire, which caused great losses.

Moreover, she affirmed Egypt’s solidarity with Australia in this harsh situation, in the light of deep and strong relations between both countries.

The minister also reviewed the efforts exerted by the ministry regarding the immediate implementation of the "lifeboats" initiative, which was announced by President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi at the conclusion of the 3rd edition of the World Youth Forum (WYF).

This initiative aims at reducing the phenomenon of illegal immigration and protecting the lives of migrants and transients.

In this regard, they discussed a proposal of organizing an event attended by ambassadors of foreign countries in Egypt, in order to present the efforts made by the Egyptian state to reduce irregular migration, especially that no illegal migrant boat had left Egypt to Europe or anywhere since 2016.

In another context, Makram reviewed the efforts exerted by the ministry in linking Egyptian youth abroad with their homeland.

It is scheduled that the immigration ministry will receive a youth delegation from Australia from the second and third generation of Egyptians living abroad in more than 20 countries around the world.

They are set to visit the historic and tourist attractions of Egypt and to learn about the development projects being implemented, as well as attending courses on national security to correct any misconceptions or ideas they may be exposed to abroad, as well as linking them to authentic Egyptian customs, traditions, and values.

On his part, the Australian ambassador expressed happiness to meet the Egyptian minister, praising her efforts in benefiting from the common denominators between both countries and bringing people closer.

Contributed by: Nada Mustafa