Cairo: Prime Minister Dr. Moustafa Madbouly reaffirmed Egypt's commitment to strengthening coordination with Uzbekistan in international forums and expanding bilateral economic cooperation through joint projects and investments aimed at increasing trade volumes between the two countries. Madbouly's remarks came during a meeting with Uzbekistan's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bakhtiyor Saidov.
According to State Information Service Egypt, Madbouly welcomed the Uzbek foreign minister and praised the positive momentum in bilateral relations, expressing Egypt's eagerness to further enhance cooperation across a wide range of sectors of mutual interest. Madbouly highlighted Egypt's strategic geographic location, which provides Uzbekistan with access to markets across the Middle East and Africa. He also pointed to the successful operation of Egyptian companies in Uzbekistan, particularly in the infrastructure sector, as well as Egyptian investments in electrical appliance manufacturing. He noted the potential for expanding cooperation into pharmaceutical production and other strategic industries.
The discussions also addressed regional developments and Egypt's efforts to resolve regional crises, reduce tensions, and promote security and stability in the region. Particular attention was given to Egypt's ongoing diplomatic efforts to advance a just settlement of the Palestinian issue. For his part, Saidov conveyed greetings from Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev to President Abdel Fattah El Sisi and praised Egypt's role in promoting peace and stability across the region.
Saidov emphasized his country's desire to strengthen cooperation with Egypt in various fields, noting that the visit would provide fresh momentum for bilateral relations and open new avenues for collaboration. The Uzbek Minister underscored Uzbekistan's interest in launching joint projects with Egypt, particularly in infrastructure development, while also advancing the work of the joint business council and increasing bilateral trade to levels that reflect the strong political ties between the two nations. He highlighted the strategic importance of the Egyptian market as a gateway to neighboring countries and stressed Uzbekistan's role as a key entry point for Egypt into Central Asian markets.
He outlined several promising areas for cooperation, including agricultural machinery manufacturing, automotive production, fertilizers, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals, as well as collaboration between economic zones, industrial areas, and local governorates in both countries. Saidov also commended Egypt's recent economic achievements and noted that Uzbekistan has experienced significant economic progress as well, creating favorable conditions for a deeper economic partnership.
The meeting further explored opportunities for enhanced cooperation in international organizations and multilateral forums, including within the framework of the Non-Aligned Movement. Madbouly directed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Egyptian Expatriates Affairs to follow up on and implement the various cooperation proposals discussed, to advance bilateral relations and unlock new opportunities for partnership between Egypt and Uzbekistan.