CAIRO, Egypt (BG) – Egypt, France and the European Union have signed nine financing and grant agreements worth €262.3 million to implement priority projects in Egypt’s water treatment, sanitation, renewable energy and railway sectors.
The agreements reflect the depth and strength of the historical ties between Egypt and France, and aim to expand economic, trade and investment relations between the two sides.
According to a statement issued Tuesday by Egypt’s Ministry of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation, the agreements were signed during the state visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to Egypt.
The agreements, which include concessional financing and grants, aim to implement several priority projects, including the Regional Control Center Project in Alexandria, a new wastewater treatment plant in East Alexandria, the Robiki/10th of Ramadan/Belbeis railway line, and the Al-Gabal Al-Asfar Wastewater Treatment Plant.
These projects target infrastructure improvements in densely populated areas and are intended to support Egypt’s efforts toward sustainable development.
Minister of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation Rania A. Al-Mashat highlighted that the agreements signify a pivotal development in Egyptian-French relations, elevating them to a strategic partnership.
She emphasized that the ministry will coordinate with French authorities to determine priority projects, focusing on sustainable infrastructure, climate change mitigation, and technological and human development.
Among the key initiatives, the Regional Control Center Project will receive €50 million in financing from the French Development Agency (AFD) and a €10 million grant from the EU. The project aims to modernize the electricity grid in Alexandria.
Meanwhile, the new wastewater treatment plant in East Alexandria will benefit from €68 million in AFD financing and a €2 million EU grant to support urban development for a growing population.
The railway project and the expansion of the Al-Gabal Al-Asfar plant will further bolster Egypt’s transportation and sanitation sectors, supporting economic growth and improving living standards.
