Madbouly's remarks came during his participation at the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) on behalf of President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi, held on 4-6 September in the capital Beijing.

During his speech, the Egyptian PM highlighted the vast development potential within the African continent, which has the world's highest population growth rates, making Africa a huge market with significant trade and investment opportunities.

In addition, he emphasised the need for a genuine partnership between Africa and China, given China's success in achieving an industrial revolution, which aligns with the FOCAC main goals.

Madbouly further explained that the Egyptian government views the development of the industrial sector as a key driver of economic growth, stressing the state’s commitment to improving the industrial infrastructure, promoting industry, and emerging as a regional industrial hub.

He also underscored that modernising agriculture is equally important as modernising industry to ensure food security across Africa.

"Agriculture is a fundamental part of the economies of many African nations, contributing over 25 percent to the continent's GDP," Madbouly noted.

He stressed the importance of updating agricultural practices to address the social and economic challenges Africa faces, particularly as it is the most vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change.

Furthermore, the premier noted that Egypt is working to boost productivity, achieve food security, and leverage modern technology provided by China through technical and technological support, as well as the exchange of expertise.

The 2024 FOCAC Summit, the largest diplomatic event since the COVID-19 pandemic, features the participation of several heads of state and government.

China, the world's number two economy, is Africa's largest trading partner, with bilateral trade reaching $167.8 billion in the first half of this year, according to Chinese media.