EBRD Officials Meet Egypt’s Minister of Civil Aviation to Discuss Joint Development Projects
The Investor Today (Cairo): Doaa Mohamed
A delegation from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), led by Ms. Sue Barrett, Director of Infrastructure for Reconstruction, met with Dr. Sameh El-Hefny, Egypt’s Minister of Civil Aviation. The meeting was attended by several EBRD officials, as well as Accountant Amani Metwally, the Permanent Undersecretary of the Ministry of Civil Aviation.
Focus on Joint Investment Opportunities in Civil Aviation
The primary agenda of the meeting was to explore potential cooperation and joint investments within the civil aviation sector. EBRD representatives shared their vision of supporting Egypt’s development efforts, focusing on project financing and encouraging private sector participation in the coming period.
The discussion also reviewed the existing relationship between the EBRD and Egypt, recognizing the bank’s key role as a major development partner. Particular attention was given to future collaboration on green projects, sustainable infrastructure, and innovations in environmentally friendly aviation fuel.
Sustainable Fuel Projects as a Future Priority
During the talks, the EBRD expressed special interest in sustainable fuel projects, identifying them as a significant future focus area for reducing carbon emissions and enhancing environmental performance in the aviation sector.
Welcoming Remarks from Minister El-Hefny
Dr. Sameh El-Hefny welcomed the EBRD delegation, expressing gratitude for the productive meeting. He highlighted how the discussions align with Egypt’s broader strategy of increasing private sector participation across various investment fields, accelerating economic growth, and enhancing job creation.
The Minister also emphasized the Ministry of Civil Aviation’s dedication to expanding cooperation with international institutions that support development projects. Among the Ministry’s top priorities are the improvement of airport infrastructure, increasing capacity, and elevating service standards to meet international benchmarks, thereby contributing to Egypt’s economic development.
Exploring EBRD Proposals and Ongoing Projects
The meeting also provided an opportunity to discuss the EBRD’s proposals for ongoing projects in the civil aviation sector. This potential collaboration aligns with Egypt’s national strategy to maximize economic returns and enhance private sector involvement across key sectors, particularly civil aviation.
Sue Barrett on EBRD’s Commitment to Egypt’s Development
Ms. Sue Barrett expressed her enthusiasm about the discussions and emphasized the EBRD’s commitment to supporting Egypt’s development in the aviation sector. She noted that this is a critical period of growth for the country, particularly in infrastructure and clean energy initiatives. The EBRD is ready to provide additional financing options to the private sector and increase investments in projects currently underway within Egypt’s airport system, boosting the sector’s potential to drive economic growth.
