CAIRO: The Egyptian government announced a new plan for U.S. development aid, based on the use of Egyptian expertise and equipment in grant-sponsored activities. The U.S. Adviser for Regional Trade for Egypt and Lebanon stressed that the Egyptian economy is now less in need of aid from Washington, but added, “[Egypt] needs more exchange in trade with the United States.” The Egyptian Ministry of International Cooperation agreed to develop a program of economic aid to Egypt in cooperation with the U.S. over the coming years, commensurate with the priorities of Egypt and achieving the mutual interests of both parties. Faiza Abul-Naga, Minister of International Cooperation, expects that the next stage will witness greater interaction between the Egypt and the U.S. in the fields of human development and transfer of technology and knowledge. Additionally, Abul-Naga expects an increase in the number of envoys to the United States. Abul-Naga confirmed the importance of cooperation and partnership based on mutual respect in the next phase of the project during a meeting with a senior adviser to the Director of USAID for the Middle East, George Odato, and Mission Director of the U.S. Agency for International Development in Cairo, James Beever. In a related issue, the U.S. Adviser for regional trade to Egypt and Lebanon, Margaret Alicia Kishician, stressed that Egypt is now “in less need of USAID, and in greater need to increase trade with the United States.” However, her comments do not necessarily signify greater cooperation between the two countries, as she also pointed out that the resumption of negotiations for a free trade agreement requires the approval of the U.S. Congress. During a press conference held in Cairo, Kishician said the Foreign Trade Agency of America is currently working to identify special needs in Egypt, particularly after its transition from a recipient of aid to a middle income country. Kishician spoke of the willingness of the U.S. to increase trade with Egypt, especially in light of current circumstances, such as Egypt's ability to survive the global economic crisis. She also ruled out the possibility that the current political climate and upcoming parliamentary elections would lead to any radical, negative changes to Egypt's economic situation. Kishician said the volume of American investments in Egypt is very good. The focus of these investments is in the energy sector, and Kishician stressed the keenness of her country to support Egypt's activities in the fields of renewable and nuclear energy in cooperation with the Egyptian government, noting the existence of an exchange of delegations from Egypt and the U.S. to encourage investment in this vital area. BM
