• Al-Mashat: The Joint Committee lays the foundation for a more comprehensive partnership between the two countries across a wide range of promising sectors
• We look forward to establishing a joint business council to play an effective role in increasing trade volume and creating constructive private sector partnerships
• The Egyptian economy has become more prepared to attract investments across various sectors, and the government continues to implement private-sector-driven reforms
H.E. Dr. Rania Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation, inaugurated the Egyptian–Albanian Business Forum, held in the Albanian capital Tirana, as part of the meetings of the first session of the Egyptian–Albanian Joint Committee for Economic, Scientific, and Technical Cooperation.
The Forum was attended by Ms. Delina Ibrahimaj, Minister of Economy and Innovation of the Republic of Albania, Ambassador Hassan Shawky, Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt to Albania, and a number of private sector representatives from key sectors including tourism, infrastructure, agriculture, construction, and other areas of mutual interest.
In her remarks, H.E. Dr. Al-Mashat emphasized that the first business forum between the two countries represents a pivotal milestone in the trajectory of relations between the Arab Republic of Egypt and the Republic of Albania. She noted that convening the first session of the Joint Committee since 1993 reflects a shared political will to elevate bilateral relations and move from intentions and aspirations to tangible economic, scientific, and technical cooperation, in line with the development priorities of both countries.
She highlighted that the agreement to establish a joint Egyptian–Albanian Business Council will further strengthen future relations by playing an active role in increasing bilateral trade, promoting joint investments, and fostering constructive partnerships between the private sectors of both countries.
Dr. Al-Mashat also reviewed the progress of Egypt’s economic and structural reforms, and the measures previously undertaken by the government that have enhanced the readiness of the Egyptian economy to attract diversified investments. She affirmed that the government remains committed to implementing reforms that provide additional incentives for the private sector.
In this context, she invited Albanian companies to capitalize on the opportunities offered by the Suez Canal Economic Zone, which serves as a strategic gateway for Albanian investments and exports to regional and international markets.
The Minister further stressed that joint governmental committees, particularly this Joint Committee, remain essential tools for deepening cooperation, exploring new investment opportunities, and supporting private sector engagement. She noted that the Protocol of the first session covers a broad range of strategic sectors, including trade, investment, tourism, energy, water, agriculture, higher education, health, information and communications technology, civil aviation, environment, youth and sports, culture, and others—reflecting a shared vision for a comprehensive partnership.
She added that Egypt continues to implement an ambitious economic reform program aimed at enhancing competitiveness, improving the investment climate, and expanding the role of the private sector.
In closing, H.E. Dr. Al-Mashat stated that the Business Forum provides an ideal platform to explore new horizons, exchange expertise, and build practical partnerships that reflect shared aspirations for prosperity. She expressed her aspiration for the bilateral partnership to continue growing through expanded trade, increased investments, and deeper cooperation across various fields.