Sochi: Assistant Foreign Minister for African Organisations and Communities at the Egyptian Foreign Ministry, Ambassador Ashraf Swelam, emphasized the immense investment and trade opportunities available across the African continent, highlighting its position as a substantial market of 1.4 billion people, predominantly young. This statement was made during his participation as the head of an Egyptian delegation in the ministerial meeting of the Russian-African partnership held in Sochi.

According to State Information Service Egypt, the ambassador delivered a speech on behalf of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Emigration and Egyptian Expatriates, Badr Abdelatty, where he expressed Egypt’s pride in the African-Russian partnership. This collaboration was inaugurated during Egypt’s presidency of the African Union (AU) in 2019, marked by the first summit in Sochi, co-chaired by Presidents Abdel Fattah El Sisi and Vladimir Putin.

The diplomat underscored the significance of the African Continental Free Trade Agr
eement, also signed during Egypt’s AU presidency, as a vital step towards regional integration. He emphasized Africa’s commitment to external partnerships, particularly with Russia, to secure peace, security, and sustainable development, in line with the Africa Agenda 2063.

Swelam also highlighted the significant challenges facing Africa and the world, such as conflicts, terrorism, epidemics, illegal immigration, and the worsening debt crisis. He stressed the necessity for comprehensive reform in the global and international economic systems, particularly addressing Africa’s representation in decision-making bodies like the Security Council.

Moreover, the diplomat praised the ongoing cooperation with Russia, including the establishment of a Russian industrial zone in Egypt and major infrastructure and energy projects. He described these initiatives as exemplary models for African-Russian cooperation, showcasing the potential for further collaborative efforts in the region.