US to invest $129 mln in Egyptian development priorities: Blinken at US-Egypt Strategic Dialogue

Ahram Online , Thursday 19 Sep 2024

The US government will invest $129 million, through USAID, as part of its commitment to develop the joint US-Egypt priorities, according to a statement by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken during the Wednesday round of US-Egypt Strategic Dialogue.

US-Egypt Strategic Dialogue

 

The investment aims to support Egypt's reforms towards an economy driven by the private sector, advance public education, improve the public health system, and reinforce responsive government institutions and transparency.

The dialogue also pinpointed a partnership that accomplishes Egypt’s vision for education, protects Egypt’s cultural heritage, and expands the tourism sector which is advantageous for Egyptians and visitors in the long run.

During the dialogue, the US also announced its initiative to provide nine STEM schools across Egypt with advanced equipment for science and fabrication laboratories.

In addition, it will upgrade 80 technical education schools and expand the US-funded University Career Centres to include 19 more Egyptian universities.

Furthermore, three leading American universities are signing partnerships to open branches in Egypt: the Illinois Institute of Technology, the University of Minnesota, and Drake University.

Moreover, USAID in partnership with the Ministry of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation will continue giving out university scholarships, training teachers to enhance the quality of basic education, growing the STEM education system, and executing joint research in water, clean energy, and climate change.

It will also encourage innovation, entrepreneurship, and trade, targeting specifically women and youth.

It is worth noting that America has invested $30 billion in US Economic Development Assistance since 1978.

The comprehensive development partnerships with the US are coordinated with national strategies to expand the economy and enhance the quality of life.

According to the statement, the United States is investing $63 million to construct 65 career centres at 53 universities across Egypt.

Additionally, the country has allocated $140 million over the past 30 years to preserve cultural heritage in Egyptian archaeological and historical sites.

During the previous round of strategic dialogue, on 8-9 November 2021, they discussed bilateral relations between the two countries and areas of cooperation.

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