Belarus president: Egypt is important economic, trade partner in Middle East

CAIRO - 18 February 2020: Belarus President Aleksandr Lukashenko said on Tuesday that Egypt is an important economic and trade partner in the Middle East region. He praised the achievements and the exchange of visits between the leaders of the two countries.

Lukashenko asserted that Belarusian-Egyptian relations have witnessed a big leap over the past years.

It is scheduled that Lukashenko will meet during his visit to Cairo with President Abdel Fatah al-Sisi for the fourth time since 2015, terming Sisi's recent visit to Minsk as a "historic one".

He clarified that the situation in the world and the Middle East has rapidly changed and it is necessary to cope up with the latest developments.

He also pointed out that his country is working through its embassy in Cairo to foster its relations in North Africa and beyond.

Lukashenko said trade exchange between the two countries recorded a growth of 131 percent to hit $140 million in the past year, adding that they are seeking to beef up relations in the fields of science, technology and education.

He added that there is strong cooperation between the two countries in the scientific, economic, trade and cultural fields.

The Belarus president also praised Sisi's initiatives launched during the World Youth Forum in December, noting that such initiatives have helped in enhancing interaction with youths at the international level with the aim of realizing a real success in achieving peaceful coexistence and fulfilling the sustainable development goals.

He also praised President Sisi's efforts during his presidency of the African Union and his active work on enhancing cooperation among African states as well as interaction between Africa and other world countries, asserting that Egypt is a pioneering country in the continent.

He added that Egypt, during its presidency of the African Union last year, has succeeded in enhancing its international position and expanding its relations with African states, citing its well-organized events about Africa; such as Aswan Forum for Peace and Security as well as the World Youth Forum which has become a landmark on the road of integration in the region.

The Belarus president also highlighted Egypt's efforts in fighting terrorism, voicing his readiness to support Egyptians and share with them all advanced technologies. He also noted that Egypt enjoys a fast growing economy and has one of the strongest armies in Africa.

In June 2019, President al-Sisi held talks with Belarusian President in the Belarusian capital Minsk, where the two presidents signed a joint declaration to strengthen relations in various fields, according to a statement released by spokesperson Bassam Rady.

Sisi and Lukashenko witnessed the signing ceremony for several Memorandums of understanding (MoU) for the establishment of the Belarusian-Egyptian Business Council, which aims to boost trade and investment relations.

He noted that further promotion of cooperation in tourism and energy fields was reviewed during the talks.

The two leaders agreed to establish an accredited Egyptian diplomatic representation in Minsk, similar to the Belarus Embassy in Cairo, reflecting the growing momentum between the two sides and in the framework of supporting political and diplomatic relations.