In December, the EU approved Friday the disbursement of the one-billion-euro first tranche of a loan to Egypt as part of its macro-financial assistance (MFA). The first tranche is part of the 7.4-billion-euro EU financing package for Egypt, with ongoing discussions to approve the 4-billion-euro second tranche.
According to Imart, Egypt is a key piece on the geopolitical chessboard of the Mediterranean Basin and the entire Middle East.
“While political Islam is a real threat hanging over this geographical area, Egypt is a model to follow,” she pointed out how Egypt provided free practice of faith for Coptic Christians, considerable development of the place of women in society (no obligation to wear the veil, participation in political life, etc.), and a clear desire to attract investors.
“Supporting Egypt means accompanying it in this process and preventing any return of the Muslim Brotherhood as was the case from 2012 to 2013 with Mohamed Morsi,” she said, adding the return of the Muslim Brotherhood would be a geostrategic catastrophe.
Highlighting Egypt's deep wealth and unique voice on the international stage, Imart said Europe and France have a historical and civilizational link with Egypt.
“Cradle of the civilization of the pharaohs, it also guards Mount Sinai, from where Moses delivered his 10 commandments in the Bible,” she said, adding that Egypt is at the crossroads of the great epics of antiquity, Africa, and our Judeo-Christian civilization.
“Egypt is a strategic partner for the EU in general and France in particular, both economically and militarily, diplomatically and migratorily,” she said, referring to the signing of the Strategic Partnership between Egypt and the EU in March.
She noted that, at the diplomatic level, Egypt is one of the only Arab countries that speaks both with Israel and with Palestinian representatives, adding that Egyptian mediators are working continuously alongside the French, Americans, and Qataris on the ceasefire in Gaza.
On the migratory front, Egypt welcomes nearly 10 million migrants and refugees into its territory, whom it is trying to integrate into its economic and social system instead of opening the door to Europe for them, Imart stated.
“It is a reliable and credible partner on the subject of migration, despite the very delicate economic context linked to a drop in revenues from tourism and tensions in the Red Sea (Houthis) which negatively impact the Suez Canal,” she said.
“In terms of respect for the fundamental values of the EU, Egypt has been implementing a major progress plan since 2021 on the promotion of democracy, fundamental freedoms, human rights, gender equality, and equal opportunities,” Imart said.
She added the strengthened laws against violence against women, as well as initiatives to support their economic and political participation in Egypt, show progress towards gender equality.
“At the same time, protective measures for children have been strengthened, ensuring wider access to education and health, with a particular emphasis on reducing regional disparities,” she emphasized.
Imart hinted that the four-billion-euro aid package was a loan subject to reimbursement and submitted to the vote of the European Parliament and the Member States.
It is also subject to Egypt's economic and human rights commitments, she added.
Imart met with prominent Egyptian officials and Egyptian parliamentarians.
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