The launch of Egypt's Integrated National Financing Strategy (INFS) marks a transformative policy shift, moving from fragmented financial approaches to a cohesive framework that aligns financial flows with national development priorities. This milestone strengthens Egypt's role in global development financing, according to UN Resident Coordinator Elena Panova. Speaking at the launch event—attended by key government officials, including Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly—Panova praised Egypt's steadfast commitment to sustainable development. She emphasized that the strategy serves as a roadmap for financing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ensuring a more strategic and effective allocation of resources. Panova acknowledged the Egyptian government's leadership in driving sustainable development, noting that the Prime Minister's presence underscored a whole-of-government commitment to the INFF. She highlighted the instrumental role of Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation, Rania Mashat, stating: "The launch of this strategy would not have been possible without her exemplary dedication." Quoting UN Secretary-General António Guterres, Panova underscored the transformative power of development financing: "Financing for development is not just a technical tool—it is a catalyst for human progress, reducing poverty and expanding opportunities for billions worldwide." She stressed that finance is at the heart of sustainable development, impacting education, healthcare, and social resilience. The INFS represents a critical departure from traditional financial strategies, instead fostering a unified approach that integrates financial resources with Egypt's national priorities. "This strategy will not only drive Egypt's sustainable development agenda but also reinforce its leadership in global financing for development," Panova remarked. Addressing the global SDG financing gap—estimated at $4trn—she emphasized the urgent need for a coordinated approach to redirect financial assets toward national priorities. She acknowledged the UN's role in mobilizing resources to support Egypt's INFS, with UNDP leading technical efforts alongside other UN entities. Panova identified key investment priorities under the strategy, including health, education, women's empowerment, sanitation, transport, and climate finance. She highlighted Egypt's recent 38% increase in tax revenue as a significant step toward domestic resource mobilization and applauded the country's active role in global tax negotiations. As the event concluded, Panova reiterated the importance of aligning international support with national development goals while embedding climate resilience and social equity into financial planning. "The UN, under my coordination, will continue to support the implementation of the INFS, ensuring strategic alignment and tangible impact," she affirmed. She closed by expressing gratitude to the Egyptian government and its partners for their collaboration in bringing the INFS to fruition. Emphasizing the need for an inclusive, country-led coordination platform, she called for sustained efforts to advance Egypt's sustainable development ambitions.
