Cairo: Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly chaired on Tuesday a high-level meeting to steer the Upper Egypt Local Development Programme (UELDP), a key initiative aimed at accelerating growth and improving the quality of life across the region.According to State Information Service Egypt, the meeting was held in collaboration with local government officials and international partners, including the World Bank. It focused on reinforcing Egypt's commitment to sustainable development and enhanced infrastructure for Upper Egypt's economic transformation.The session, attended by Minister of Industry and Transport Kamel El-Wazir, Minister of Planning Rania Al-Mashat, and Minister of Local Development Manal Awad, highlighted the pivotal role of UELDP in improving local infrastructure, creating job opportunities, and fostering a more business-friendly environment.Prime Minister Madbouly emphasized the government's dedication to expanding cooperation with international partners to promote sustainable development, wi th the World Bank at the forefront of the collaboration. He noted that the programme's focus on infrastructure improvement and investment attraction is integral to driving economic growth in Upper Egypt, a region often underserved in terms of resources.Minister Al-Mashat spotlighted the achievements of UELDP, calling it a 'success story' that has been recognized internationally. She revealed that the programme has touched the lives of 8.2 million people in Sohag and Qena, creating over 369,000 jobs. Notably, 49 percent of these beneficiaries are women, reflecting the programme's inclusivity.She added that the programme has vastly improved the local business environment, contributing to stronger governance, better infrastructure, and more attractive investment opportunities. Key outcomes include the successful establishment of industrial zones, digital modernization of government services, and improved administrative efficiency, making it easier for businesses and citizens alike to navigate local processes .