Egypt called for deeper regional integration and economic cooperation among Arab nations during a high-level summit in Baghdad, warning that geopolitical tensions and global economic instability are testing the resilience of the region's economies. Speaking on behalf of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, Egypt's Minister of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation, Rania Al-Mashat, said the Arab world must "unify efforts" to navigate a rapidly shifting global landscape marked by inflation, supply chain disruptions, and food and energy security risks. "The current global economic environment demands greater solidarity and strategic coordination between Arab states," Minister Al-Mashat said at the Fifth Arab Economic and Social Development Summit, hosted by Iraq and attended by leaders and ministers from across the region, as well as Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit. The Egyptian minister emphasised the importance of boosting intra-Arab trade, expanding economic integration, and embracing new technologies, including artificial intelligence and cybersecurity tools, to support sustainable growth and regional stability. "Despite differences in resources and capacities, we face common challenges," she said. "Our strength lies in our ability to act collectively." Her comments come as the region contends with the economic fallout of ongoing conflicts, global inflationary pressures, and heightened energy market volatility. Many Arab countries have seen surging food and fuel prices in recent years, exacerbated by disruptions in global logistics and the war in Ukraine. Cairo sees enhanced regional coordination as a buffer against external shocks and a path toward shared prosperity. Minister Al-Mashat expressed hope that the Baghdad summit would result in actionable policies that support long-term development goals across the Arab world. "We are counting on this summit to deliver practical outcomes that meet the aspirations of our peoples," she said. The summit's agenda also included discussions on climate change, energy transition, and digital transformation—issues rising in importance for economies across the Middle East and North Africa. Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English
