Ahmed Rostom, Minister of Planning and Economic Development, held an expanded meeting with a World Bank Group delegation to discuss ways to strengthen their partnership, review the latest developments in the joint cooperation portfolio, and explore future areas of cooperation in environmental and economic fields in support of Egypt’s sustainable development plans.
At the outset of the meeting, Rostom stressed the Egyptian state’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with the World Bank, describing it as a key pillar in supporting economic and structural reform efforts.
He explained that the partnership is moving towards a more integrated model that balances fiscal discipline with investment in human development and the creation of new job opportunities through greater private sector empowerment.
Members of the World Bank delegation presented proposed projects in environmental protection and institutional development, while commending the existing partnership with the Egyptian government and the strength of the programmes currently being implemented.
The meeting addressed two key areas of environmental cooperation. The first focuses on reducing air pollution in Greater Cairo through improved solid waste management and efforts to curb the burning of agricultural waste, while the second aims to support the transition towards a low-carbon economy and reduce emissions.
In this context, discussions covered ways to mobilise financing from international partners to enable the private sector to take the lead in green development, particularly through preparations for the launch of the Industrial Carbon Emissions Reduction Fund.
Regarding the blue economy and water resources, the World Bank delegation highlighted the strategic importance of developing this sector in Egypt, expressing its readiness to provide the technical support and expertise needed to promote the sustainable management of coastal areas and marine resources.
Concluding the meeting, Rostom reaffirmed the importance of cooperation in developing Egypt’s statistical and economic systems. He noted that improving the accuracy of indicators and updating national databases are fundamental to ensuring effective economic and development decision-making in the coming period.
