Turkish ambassador says trade is the backbone of relations with Egypt

CAIRO – 2 July 2026: Turkish Ambassador to Egypt Salih Mutlu Şen said trade and economic ties are the most important pillar—and the backbone—of bilateral relations between Egypt and Turkey.

Speaking at a press conference, Şen said both countries have large populations, open economies, and integrated trade and economic policies. He noted that Egypt has comprehensive trade and economic agreements with partners around the world, including Europe, North and South America, Africa, and the Arab region.

He emphasized Egypt's strategic location on the Mediterranean Sea, where major maritime shipping routes converge, as well as its control of the Suez Canal. He added that Egypt and Turkey concluded 2025 with a bilateral trade volume of approximately $8 billion.

According to the ambassador, bilateral trade reached $3 billion during the first four months of 2026, representing an increase of about 15 percent compared with the same period in 2025.

Şen said Egypt will remain Turkey's largest trading partner in Africa this year and in the years ahead. He added that Turkey will continue to rank among Egypt's top five trading partners worldwide and remain one of its top three export destinations. He projected that bilateral trade would reach a record high of around $9 billion by the end of 2026.

To further expand trade, Şen said both countries need to strengthen air, sea, road, and rail transport links. In this context, he described roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) shipping services between Egypt and Turkey as essential.

The ambassador also expressed confidence that Egypt and Turkey would eventually be connected by rail. "I believe with all my heart that this dream will become a reality within 10 years," he said.

In the aviation sector, Şen said Turkish carriers have increased flights to Ankara to five per day, describing the expansion as significant. He added that flights between Ankara and Cairo are important for tourism, education, trade, and broader bilateral relations. He also noted that Turkish Airlines operates cargo flights that facilitate Egypt's fruit exports, as well as the import and export of technology products through Cairo.

On Gaza, the ambassador said Egypt and Turkey are making intensive efforts to advance to the second phase of the peace plan, citing Israel's failure to fulfill its commitments under the first phase. He said both countries are working tirelessly to support that objective.

Şen also confirmed that Egypt and Turkey continue to hold consultations on developments in Libya and Sudan. He said the two countries are working to support the unity, territorial integrity, and stability of Libya and Sudan.