The Minister stated that the meeting included a
comprehensive review of the prospects for economic and trade cooperation
between Egypt and Côte d’Ivoire. He emphasized the importance of expanding
trade exchanges, developing partnerships in the fields of energy, mining, and
agriculture, and encouraging the private sector to capitalize on available
investment opportunities in both countries.
El Khatib added that the two nations aim to create a
favorable environment for business growth and enhance economic cooperation. He
highlighted plans to develop the Egyptian state-owned building in Côte
d’Ivoire, converting it into a logistics hub or a permanent exhibition for
Egyptian products, with the possibility of allocating additional space if
required.
The Minister also stressed the importance of activating the
Egyptian-Ivorian Business Council to empower investors in driving trade and
investment and confirmed Egypt’s readiness to cooperate with Côte d’Ivoire in
energy, minerals, and other sectors of mutual interest.
El Khatib further highlighted the goal of achieving a
balanced trade relationship through the exchange of raw materials for
industrial products, with clear targets set to double the current trade volume,
which currently ranges between $300 and $350 million.
Adom praised the strength of bilateral relations between
Egypt and Côte d’Ivoire, noting the presence of successful Egyptian companies
already operating in his country, particularly in the infrastructure and energy
sectors.
He added that Côte d’Ivoire possesses significant raw
materials, creating opportunities for industrial and investment projects, and
emphasized that cooperation with Egypt to maximize the use of these resources
can generate mutual added value and contribute to economic development in both
countries.
Adoum underscored that his country regards Egypt as a
strategic partner and a gateway to Africa, pledging to provide all possible
support to Egyptian companies wishing to invest in Côte d’Ivoire. He also
extended an official invitation to Engineer Hassan El Khatib to visit Côte
d’Ivoire at the earliest opportunity to discuss the future of joint economic
cooperation between the two nations.