The forum saw broad participation from senior business
figures and representatives from both the public and private sectors in Egypt
and Mali, including Malian Foreign Minister Abdoulaye Diop, Industry and Trade
Minister Moussa Al-Hassan Diallo, and Commissioner for Food Security Radwan Agh
Mohamed.
A large Egyptian delegation of 30 business leaders and
company representatives attended, led by Dr. Sherif El-Gabaly, head of the
African Cooperation Committee at the Federation of Egyptian Industries. Other
notable attendees included Dr. Mohey Hafez of the Export Council for Medical
Industries, and Major General Hazem Ahmed Yehia from the Egypt Future for
Sustainable Development Agency, along with representatives from key Egyptian
entities such as the Association of Egyptian Exporters, the Federation of
Industries, the Egyptian General Petroleum Corporation, and the Mineral
Resources Authority.
In his opening remarks, Abdelatty highlighted the forum as a
significant step towards bolstering economic and trade ties. He emphasized that
it opens unprecedented horizons for the private sector in both countries to
develop partnerships based on integration and trust, aligning with their deep
historical connections and economic potential.
The foreign minister asserted that Egyptian-Malian relations
are experiencing unprecedented momentum, positioning the forum as a crucial
starting point to boost trade, foster industrial and investment partnerships,
and enhance cooperation between their respective business communities.
Abdelatty praised the forum's role as a practical first step
in strengthening institutional cooperation. He noted ongoing joint efforts,
including the formation of an economic working group and plans to establish an
Egyptian-Malian business council, aimed at activating cooperation across
various sectors.
Egypt, he said, is keen to expand its investments in Mali,
particularly in priority sectors such as textiles, timber, and pharmaceuticals.
This aligns with Mali's national development plans, including the 2024-2033
Development Plan and the "Mali Kura 2063" vision.
Dr. Abdelatty also highlighted Egypt's economy as one of
Africa's largest, citing its promising investment opportunities and extensive
experience in strategic projects spanning infrastructure, agriculture, energy,
dams, medicine, and telecommunications. He showcased Egypt's notable progress
in industrial and service sectors.
He reiterated Egypt's commitment as a key partner to Mali's
efforts in achieving security, stability, and combating terrorism. He stressed
the importance of a comprehensive approach that links security and development
for sustainable peace, urging continued joint work to strengthen bilateral
relations across all fields.
Malian Industry and Trade Minister Moussa Al-Hassan Diallo,
in his address, affirmed his government's strong interest in enhancing
cooperation with Egypt. He commended Egypt's expertise in supporting
development across the African continent.
Diallo expressed Mali's eagerness to leverage Egypt's
pioneering experience in vital sectors, particularly infrastructure,
manufacturing, medicine, and energy. He emphasized that the forum's convening
reflects the shared political will to elevate economic and investment
cooperation, marking a significant step towards establishing a sustainable
partnership.