Britain's outgoing ambassador to Egypt, Gareth Bayley delivered an emotional farewell on Monday, expressing deep affection for Egyptians and highlighting eight promising sectors for future investment ties between the two countries. Speaking at a farewell event marking the end of his diplomatic posting, Bayley said what he would miss most was "the Egyptian people," describing the friendships he built as "one big family." He added: "I am gonna truly miss Egyptians... yes, that may sound like a cliché, but it is true. He said Egyptians have a unique energy, genuine love, and an open spirit that makes Egypt unforgettable. Bayley, who first visited Egypt in 1997 as a 24-year-old, said he never imagined he would later become the UK's 48th ambassador to Cairo, adding that the 239-year diplomatic relationship represents about 3.4 per cent of Egypt's recorded history. The ambassador praised the British Egyptian Business Association (BEBA), calling it a cornerstone of bilateral economic relations since its founding in 1996. The group has grown from 100 member companies to around 800 to date, Bayley said, with a clear mission to boost trade and investment between the two nations. He pointed to eight promising sectors for enhanced cooperation, including clean energy, professional services, life sciences, and agricultural technology. The UK is not the top investor in Egypt right now, he said, noting that the Uk must work to reclaim that position. Bayley also thanked senior Egyptian officials, including Planning Minister Rania Al-Mashat, for supporting British investments, praising Al-Mashat as a pivotal partner for sustainable growth efforts, especially around the water-energy-food nexus. Bayley announced that Mark Bryson-Richardson will succeed him as the new UK ambassador on August 22, describing him as "an upgrade" rather than just a replacement, noting that he speaks Arabic fluently and has a deep love for Egypt. Joking with the audience in Arabic, Bayley said: "Forget Gareth, and save Mark's number in your phones. And if you miss me, remember the saying: distance makes the heart grow fonder. I will miss you all and look forward to seeing you in London." Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English
