Minister of Representative on 2023 – 2027 Joint Country Program & COP27 Cooperation

The Minister of International Cooperation H.E. Dr. Rania A. Al-Mashat met with Federica Mayer, representative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Egypt. This meeting comes within the framework of periodic meetings held by the Ministry of International Cooperation with multilateral and bilateral development partners to strengthen joint relations and partnerships in support of Egypt’s Vision 2030.

During the meeting, Al-Mashat and Mayer discussed developments in preparing the 2023- 2027 joint country program for cooperation between the Government of Egypt and the UNFPA, as well as cooperation on the COP27.

The Minister stressed that the new 2023 – 2027 country program comes within the strategic framework of cooperation between Egypt and the UN for sustainable development. This is in line with supporting the country’s development efforts towards the 2030 SDGs. Al-Mashat also applauded the vital role played by the UN, its agencies and programs, to support the Government of Egypt’s priorities.

Al-Mashat explained that the national consultations of the 2023- 2027 joint country program witnessed the participation of all stakeholders and relevant entities, to reflect national priorities, especially in the areas of gender equality, youth empowerment, ensuring the participation of all groups in development, addressing violence against women, curbing challenges of population control, and enhancing economic and social opportunities.

Moreover, the Minister referred to the close relations between Egypt and the UN to support national efforts aimed at achieving sustainable development, and the efforts made since 2021 between the Ministry of International Cooperation and the Office of the UN Resident Coordinator; both of which chair the steering committee together, in coordination with all relevant parties and concerned ministries.

Al-Mashat stressed her confidence that the new country program with the UNFPA will be in line with the achievements of the Government of Egypt over the past years, in terms of empowering women and youth, and combating discrimination and violence against women, while also ensuring their role in accelerating sustainable development.

Additionally, Al-Mashat discussed potential cooperation opportunities with UNFPA in light of the country’s COP27 Presidency, stressing Egypt’s keenness to enhance partnerships with all parties in promoting climate action and in transitioning towards the green economy.

It is worth noting that Egypt was one of the first countries to sign an agreement with the UNFPA, initiating its activities and the establishment of a country office in 1972, paving the way for supporting the country in its national population strategy and 2030 goals.