Cairo: Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly said on Friday that Egypt views Lebanon not only as a political partner but as a key and strategic economic partner, stressing the central role of the private sector in strengthening bilateral relations. Speaking at an Egyptian-Lebanese economic forum in Beirut, Madbouly said strong and sustainable relations between countries are built when the private sector plays an active role in shaping their future.

According to State Information Service Egypt, Madbouly acknowledged that Lebanon is currently facing a challenging phase but emphasized the real opportunities for recovery. He pointed to Egypt's own experience with economic reform, illustrating that recovery is achievable with political will, a clear vision, and an effective partnership between the state and the private sector. Madbouly highlighted the robust presence of Lebanese investments in Egypt, noting that Lebanese investors have been an integral part of Egypt's economic landscape, contributing significantly to key sectors and demonstrating the potential for Lebanese capital to integrate and thrive within the Egyptian market.

Madbouly stressed that enhancing economic and trade cooperation between Egypt and Lebanon is not merely optional but essential. While bilateral trade surpassed $1 billion in 2024, he remarked that this figure remains below the potential of both economies. He identified opportunities for expanding trade by removing procedural barriers and fostering direct partnerships between Egyptian and Lebanese companies, especially in infrastructure, energy, and reconstruction projects, with a focus on southern Lebanon.

He further stated that Egyptian public and private companies are prepared to form long-term partnerships that extend beyond the export of goods and services to encompass technology transfer, training, joint investment, and collaboration in renewable energy. Madbouly reiterated Egypt's commitment to supporting Lebanon's recovery and stability, advocating for practical cooperation mechanisms such as joint committees and business forums to transform goodwill into tangible projects. He concluded by suggesting that closer Egyptian-Lebanese cooperation could serve as a model for broader Arab economic integration.