Shoukry discusses the impact of Gaza developments on Egypt’s economy in Riyadh WEF meetings

Ahram Online , Sunday 28 Apr 2024

Egypt’s Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry discussed the developments in Gaza and their economic impact on the Egyptian economy on Sunday at the Global Economic Leaders' event on enhancing global security and growth and a roundtable discussion on trade disruptions and supply chains in the Middle East, which were held as part of the activities of the World Economic Forum (WEF) meeting in the Saudi capital Riyadh.

File Photo: Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry

During the Global Economic Leaders' event, Shoukry highlighted ways to resolve the crisis in Gaza, stressing the urgent and permanent need for a ceasefire there. He also said it was important that the international community not merely express aspirations for a two-state solution but take action to implement that solution.

The event saw the participation of Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Rwandan President Paul Kagame, the Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund Kristalina Georgieva, and several ministers and private sector leaders.

Shoukry also participated in a roundtable discussion on trade disruptions and supply chains in the Middle East. The roundtable discussion saw the participation of the Saudi Minister of Transport, the Jordanian Minister of Foreign Affairs, the CEO of Maersk, and several other prominent figures.

During the roundtable discussion, Shoukry highlighted the significance of the Suez Canal as a pivotal point in international trade and outlined efforts to develop the canal by transforming it into an advanced logistics centre.

Furthermore, he held bilateral meetings with counterparts from Norway, Sri Lanka, and Malaysia on the sidelines of the WEF meetings.

Shoukry also reiterated Egypt's complete rejection of an Israeli military operation in Rafah and any attempt at forced displacement of Palestinians.