CAIRO, March 18 (MENA) – Minister of Investment and Foreign Trade Hassan al-Khatib said the world is undergoing fundamental economic changes, with globalization declining and protectionist trade policies increasing.
He pointed to rising tariffs in the US and Europe as indicators of a new economic phase, which began with US President Donald Trump’s second term and continues with recent European elections favoring trade restrictions.
In an interview with Indian broadcaster Mihir Swarup Sharma at the Raisina 2025 economic forum, al-Khatib explained that Egypt is working to enhance competitiveness, attract private-sector investment, and create a business-friendly environment.
Over the past decade, Egypt has built extensive infrastructure, including roads, utilities, and energy projects, to support economic growth.
Since 2013, Egypt has focused on large-scale national projects to reduce unemployment and stimulate economic development.
He affirmed that Egypt’s strategic location between Europe, Asia, and Africa offers a major advantage, but without strong infrastructure, this potential cannot be fully realized.
The country has constructed a vast road network, developed 24 new cities, and launched energy projects to support urban expansion and economic activity.
He noted that government policies have helped stabilize inflation, with positive results already visible.
The minister stated that trade between the two countries remains below expectations, a topic he discussed with India’s Minister of External Trade.
During his visit, he met with senior officials and representatives from nine major Indian companies, seeking to attract more Indian investment to Egypt’s industrial and service sectors. (MENA)
