Peters has embarked on an official visit to Egypt from Sunday to Tuesday to commemorate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

During their meeting, Shoukry highlighted the legislative incentives and other opportunities offered to investors in Egypt.

He urged increased communication between the business communities of Egypt and New Zealand, leveraging the economic capabilities of both nations.

The ministers agreed on the importance of utilizing the golden jubilee of relations to enhance cooperation frameworks.

Shoukry also emphasized that the upcoming round of political consultations between Egypt and New Zealand this year will pave the way for further strengthening bilateral relations.

He praised their multilateral cooperation, expressing Egypt’s appreciation for New Zealand's participation in the Multinational Force and Observers (MFO) in Sinai since its inception.

During his visit, Peters highlighted the constructive nature of relations with Egypt, which serves as a cornerstone of New Zealand's approach to the Middle East and North Africa.

Peters noted that Egypt is the second-largest market for New Zealand in Africa, with trade between the two countries amounting to over $350 million annually.

Assisting Gaza, Sudan

As part of his visit, Peters announced that New Zealand's government would provide $6 million in humanitarian assistance to Gaza and Sudan, which are facing devastating wars.

This includes $2 million to enhance aid delivery to Gaza and $4 million to support assistance efforts for Sudanese communities affected by the ongoing war, including those in Egypt and neighbouring countries.

Peters emphasized the necessity for global efforts to push for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza during his discussions with Shoukry and Secretary-General of the Arab League Ahmed Aboul-Gheit in Cairo.

Their discussions stressed the urgency of concerted efforts to ensure a swift, substantial, and sustained increase in humanitarian aid reaching civilians in Gaza.

Furthermore, the discussions underscored the importance of implementing UN Security Council Resolution 2728, adopted last week, which calls for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza during Ramadan.