Egypt has received US$1 billion in aid from Arab countries since the 25 January revolution, lower than a promised total of $8.2 billion, said Planning and International Cooperation Minister Fayza Abouelnaga Monday.
Abouelnaga noted that Egypt has only received $500 million out of a promised $3.7 billion from Saudi Arabia and $500 million from Qatar out of a promised $1.5 billion. No aid was received from the United Arab Emirates, which had promised $3 billion.
Activists have criticized the lack of transparency with regard to aid coming from the Gulf and any conditions that may be attached.
Egypt's foreign debt has reached $34.4 billion, representing 15 percent of its gross domestic product (GDP), Abouelnaga said. She added that while the debt has not yet reached a dangerous level, it will be if it becomes 30 percent of GDP.
Abouelnaga added that negotiations with the United States are ongoing regarding potential aid and denied receiving conditional aid from any country.
Qatar, a small Gulf peninsula, is known for its keenness in promoting Arab interests and acting as an alternative to US influence in the region.
Rumors abound in Egypt that domestic Islamist groups are funded by non-state entities in the Gulf. However, analysts say no evidence exists to confirm or deny these allegations.
Translated from Al-Masry Al-Youm
