Egypt's Deputy Foreign Minister for Migration and Egyptian Expatriates' Affairs has held a virtual meeting with members of the Egyptian diaspora in South Africa, Botswana, and Lesotho, as part of the state's efforts to strengthen ties with its citizens abroad. In a statement, the foreign ministry said the meeting on Sunday with Deputy Minister Nabil Habashy aimed to listen to the community's concerns and work on resolving them. Habashy affirmed the state's great interest in its citizens abroad and highlighted the ministry's continuous efforts to communicate with Egyptian communities, listen to their problems, and develop new mechanisms for direct contact. He noted the sixth edition of the Conference for Egyptians Abroad, held in August 2025, which served as a comprehensive platform for direct dialogue. He stressed that the conference's recommendations have been directly reflected in addressing the concerns of Egyptians abroad and providing them with the necessary services and facilities. The deputy minister also reviewed a package of initiatives launched by the ministry to serve Egyptians abroad, including facilitating financial transfers through modern applications, enabling the opening of bank accounts from abroad, and providing residential units and agricultural land with special advantages. He also mentioned initiatives related to education and insurance for the diaspora. Haddad El-Gohary, Assistant Foreign Minister for Consular Affairs and Egyptians Abroad, reviewed the efforts and services provided by the ministry to develop the consular work system to serve the interests and meet the needs of Egyptian citizens abroad. At the conclusion of the meeting, Habashy praised the prominent role of Egyptian communities abroad in supporting and strengthening bilateral relations between Egypt and their host countries. He valued their contributions, which he said reflect their sense of belonging and their keenness to serve their homeland, especially in light of the current regional and international challenges.
