Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El Sisi received Australia's Governor-General, Sarah Blakely, in Cairo on Sunday, coinciding with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, reflecting the depth of their historical ties. President Sisi praised the positive contributions of the Egyptian community in Australia and their vital role in building Australian society. He highlighted the prominent position held by Australians of Egyptian descent in various fields, noting their significant achievements and leadership, which underscores the strength of relations between the two nations. Economic Ties The meeting emphasised the importance of enhancing economic, trade, and investment cooperation between Egypt and Australia. President Sisi pointed out promising investment opportunities in Egypt, especially in clean energy, green hydrogen, agriculture, tourism, technology industries, mining, and the Suez Canal Economic Zone. The president reaffirmed Egypt's commitment to localising industries and boosting its production capacity. Both sides discussed supporting cooperation in food security, potential joint projects in livestock farming and related industries in Egypt, and exploring mechanisms to facilitate access for Egyptian exports to Australian markets. Cultural, educational, and tourism collaborations were also reviewed. Governor-General Blakely agreed on the need to enhance Australian investments in Egypt and emphasised the importance of cultural investment, particularly in museums, noting the high regard Australians have for Egyptian culture. Palestinian Cause The situation in Gaza was also addressed, with both sides reviewing Egypt's ongoing efforts to achieve a ceasefire, facilitate hostage exchanges, ensure sufficient humanitarian aid to the region, and reject the use of hunger as a weapon or collective punishment against the Palestinian people. The two parties reiterated the importance of rebuilding Gaza according to the relevant Arab-Islamic plan and advancing the two-state solution, leading to the establishment of a Palestinian state as the only path to lasting peace and regional stability. Governor-General Blakely expressed Australia's commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and strategic partnership with Egypt, appreciating the momentum in their cooperation. She reaffirmed Australia's full support for Egypt's continuous efforts to restore stability in the region. Grand Egyptian Museum At the end of the meeting, President Sisi invited Blakely to attend the grand opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum, an invitation that was warmly received. Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English Subediting: M. S. Salama
