Egypt's diplomatic stride towards BRICS membership and strengthening ties with African nations takes center stage at the 'Hekayet Watan' conference.
Minister Samih Shoukry discusses Egypt's global influence and commitment to human rights - Press Photo
Samih Shoukry, Egypt's Minister of Foreign Affairs, affirmed that Egypt's invitation to join the BRICS alliance holds profound significance, providing a platform for economic cooperation that contributes to development and improves the quality of life for Egyptian citizens.
Speaking at the "Hekayet Watan" (A Nation's Story) conference, Shoukry underlined the nation's commitment to multilateral frameworks, showcasing Egypt's influential presence in various international organizations, such as the United Nations, Arab League, Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and the Group of 77.
Egypt has always been recognized for its capacity to influence and its commitment to respecting international legal frameworks in diplomatic relations between nations, Shoukry emphasized. The country has consistently adhered to the principles outlined in the United Nations Charter, further solidifying its reputation on the world stage.
Moreover, Minister Shoukry highlighted Egypt's leadership role in the COMESA (Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa) alliance, a free-trade bloc without customs duties.
Egypt's leadership in COMESA paved the way for the African Continental Free Trade Area agreement, allowing African nations to engage in intra-continental trade, harnessing their self-reliant capabilities.
Shoukry also emphasized Egypt's robust diplomatic outreach to African nations, having conducted a record number of visits to meet African leaders, whether in their capitals or at African summits. This has fostered both personal and institutional relationships, greatly enhancing Egypt's stature on the African continent.
Egypt's foreign policy is inherently designed to serve its citizens by opening avenues for investment and employment.
It aims to elevate the status of Egyptian nationals abroad while concurrently enhancing digital consular services, providing investment and production opportunities, and connecting Egyptians living abroad with their homeland.
The policy also includes ensuring the safety of citizens and facilitating their evacuation from crisis areas during times of need, in addition to organizing overseas elections to uphold their political rights.
Furthermore, Egypt has established the Supreme Committee for Human Rights and launched a national human rights strategy, demonstrating its commitment to protecting citizens' social and civil rights, irrespective of political gains.
