Egypt’s Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Hala El-Said, and Russian Minister of Economic Development, Maxim Reshetnikov, met on the sidelines of the 27th St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) to discuss potential areas of cooperation.
El-Said emphasized the long-standing relationship between Egypt and Russia and the opportunity the meeting presented to strengthen bilateral ties.
She highlighted the importance of cooperation in food security, economic and social relations for regional peace and global prosperity.
The ministers discussed their aligned visions for economic development and strategic goals.
El-Said detailed the expanded role of the Egyptian Ministry of Planning since 2020, encompassing economic development, and structural and social reform plans within the framework of Egypt’s Vision 2030. She also highlighted the ministry’s efforts in initiatives such as the Decent Life initiative, the National Family Development Project, and the National Initiative for Smart Green Projects.
El-Said also pointed to youth-focused initiatives led by the National Institute for Governance and Sustainable Development, the training arm of the ministry. These include the “Be an Ambassador” initiative, the “Governance Ambassadors” initiative, and the “Green Minds” initiative, all aimed at promoting sustainable development and climate change awareness.
Reshetnikov congratulated El-Said on Egypt’s accession to the BRICS group and outlined Russia’s program for the group’s upcoming summit in Kazan.
The ministers exchanged views on the role of BRICS in achieving strategic economic and political goals and discussed best practices for economic development and technology implementation.