Cairo: President Abdel Fattah El Sisi stated that Egypt has never merely been a cradle for knowledge but has been a genuine partner in its production and dissemination and a bridge for cultural communication between peoples. Speaking at the inauguration of the new Senghor University headquarters in New Borg El-Arab alongside French President Emmanuel Macron, El Sisi emphasized the importance of building effective international partnerships and South-South cooperation to meet growing developmental challenges.
Cairo: President Abdel Fattah El Sisi stated that Egypt has never merely been a cradle for knowledge but has been a genuine partner in its production and dissemination and a bridge for cultural communication between peoples. Speaking at the inauguration of the new Senghor University headquarters in New Borg El-Arab alongside French President Emmanuel Macron, El Sisi emphasized the importance of building effective international partnerships and South-South cooperation to meet growing developmental challenges.

According to State Information Service Egypt, El Sisi affirmed Egypt’s appreciation for the International Organization of La Francophonie in promoting dialogue and sustainable development, noting Egypt’s commitment since 1983 to supporting Francophone goals as a strategic link between Africa, the Arab world, and the Mediterranean. The President praised France’s pivotal role in supporting Francophone institutions and expressed appreciation to Macron for supporting African cadres through financial contributions and scholarships, reflecting a commitment to regional stability.

He noted that for over three decades, the university has prepared young African leaders to address developmental challenges in vital fields like governance, water security, and climate change, acting as a pillar for national policy formulation. Strengthening ties with African nations remains a cornerstone of Egyptian foreign policy, driven by a belief that the continent’s prosperity and stability are integral to Egypt’s own.

The 2019 decision to establish the new headquarters reflects Egypt’s commitment to investing in human capital as the most effective path toward sustainable development. Egypt provided the land and significant financial support to complete the project in record time, doubling capacity and offering annual scholarships to African students to maintain the university’s central role.

El Sisi described the university as a successful model of international partnership, asserting that Africa’s future relies on empowering youth and enhancing institutional capabilities. He thanked donors and partners for their efforts and told students they are Africa’s true hope, using their knowledge to build a better future for the continent. Concluding his speech, the President welcomed attendees to Egypt as a beacon of science and civilization, reiterating his gratitude to President Macron for his presence.