The UNDP is a key partner in implementing development programs that draw on international best practices, aiming to foster the growth of small, medium, and micro-enterprises, create jobs for youth, and enhance support services, thereby increasing the sector's contribution to the national economy, Rahmy said.
Rahmy's remarks came as he hosted Alessandro Fracassetti,
the outgoing UNDP Resident Representative in Egypt, at MSMEDA headquarters.
Fracassetti was honored for his contributions during his tenure in Cairo, with
Rahmy presenting him a shield in recognition of his influential and effective
role in facilitating joint development programs.
The ceremony was attended by Dr. Abeer Shakweer, Assistant
Resident Representative of the UNDP, along with MSMEDA's deputy CEOs and other
senior officials.
Rahmy lauded Fracassetti's support for MSMEDA activities
over the past four years, highlighting MSMEDA's participation in the 27th and
28th UN Climate Change Conferences, efforts to digitalize MSMEDA's operations,
and the implementation of community and human development projects in
underserved areas. He also acknowledged support for handicrafts and heritage
industries, and the expansion of mobile business development units to reach
citizens in various villages and towns, helping them access MSMEDA services and
contributing to the agency's internal strategy development.
Fracassetti, in turn, praised the fruitful strategic
partnership between the UNDP and MSMEDA, calling it a successful model for
development cooperation that reinforces Egypt's drive for comprehensive and
sustainable development.
“We are proud of the close partnership with MSMEDA, which
has resulted in numerous qualitative initiatives and programs aimed at
supporting entrepreneurs, promoting financial inclusion, and creating job
opportunities, especially for the most vulnerable groups," Fracassetti
stated. He added that MSMEDA plays a "pivotal role in driving the national
economy" by empowering small and medium-sized enterprises and
entrepreneurship, and by advancing the Sustainable Development Goals and
Egypt's Vision 2030.
"We affirm our full commitment at the United Nations
Development Programme to continue providing technical and institutional support
to MSMEDA and deepen cooperation to achieve tangible results that contribute to
improving citizens' lives and promoting inclusive economic growth," he
added.
Dr. Shakweer underscored the "depth of the development relationship and strategic partnership" between the UNDP and MSMEDA. She affirmed the UNDP's belief in MSMEDA's significant role and its vital social and economic contributions in Egypt, stating that this ongoing collaboration serves shared development goals and supports Egypt's ambitious vision for economic development and sustainable growth.