Cairo: Minister of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation Rania el Mashat announced that Egypt has benefited from 26 projects within the first phase of the Interreg NEXT MED programme. The programme had approved a total of 60 new projects for various Mediterranean countries, with total funding of £134 million, including £119 million in funding from the European Union.

According to State Information Service Egypt, the 26 approved projects in Egypt will focus on several key areas such as small and medium-sized enterprises, tourism, education, scientific research, technological development, innovation, and social inclusion. The minister highlighted that these initiatives will address critical issues like combating climate change, enhancing environmental sustainability, improving water resources and waste management, developing renewable energy, and supporting integrated coastal zone management. These efforts are particularly significant in light of the growing environmental challenges faced by the region.

Mashat emphasized the role of her ministry as the national coordinator for the Interreg NEXT MED programme, noting that they organized multiple sessions to encourage various bodies to propose projects and take advantage of the funding opportunities available.