Egypt is keystone of US engagement in Middle East, Africa - US official

CAIRO, May 17 (MENA) – US Undersecretary of Commerce for International Trade Marisa Lago said the US looks forward to building on US-Egyptian leaders’ strategic dialogue and advancing shared commitment to strengthening economic and commercial ties between the two nations.

In her opening remarks at the inaugural U.S.-Egypt Joint Economic Commission, the official, who is leading a US delegation on a visit to Egypt, added that she is optimistic about the JEC’s potential to deepen economic, trade and investment ties, promote shared prosperity and prepare economies for the future and forge resilience to global economic shocks.

She said : “My colleagues and I are energized to explore how we can grow shared prosperity for the Egyptian and American people, while supporting Egypt in achieving ambitious goals for its economy and for its role as a leader in the region.

“In addition to colleagues from the U.S. Embassy here in Cairo, I’m joined today by a team from Washington that includes Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Economic and Business Affairs, Whitney Baird, and Regional Director for the Middle East, Africa and Europe for the U.S. Trade Development Agency, Carl Kress.

“The robust participation that you see here is a testament to how much we value our strategic partnership with Egypt, and how committed President Biden is to strengthening that partnership.

“For the U.S. Department of Commerce, Egypt is a keystone of our engagement in the Middle East and Africa.

“As the largest destination in Africa for U.S. exports, there’s no denying Egypt’s commercial importance. Likewise, U.S. companies are increasing their presence here to help Egypt meet its goals across a variety of sectors—especially in information and communication technologies, and in infrastructure. The United States is also one of the largest foreign investors in Egypt, with over 1,000 U.S. companies operating in the country, providing jobs, supporting families and communities, and boosting economic activity.”