Premier Giorgia Meloni, alongside European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, will visit Cairo on Sunday to formalise a memorandum of understanding between the EU and Egypt.
The memorandum of understanding with Egypt follows a similar agreement reached last year with Tunisia.
Meloni played a pivotal role in brokering the EU deal with Tunisia, establishing a strategic partnership that includes financial support and cooperation to combat human trafficking. This initiative came in response to a significant influx of migrants arriving in Italy from North Africa.
The premier disclosed the forthcoming agreement with Egypt during the inaugural meeting of her government’s Mattei Plan steering committee on Friday. The Mattei Plan aims to forge a new partnership with African nations, addressing the root causes of irregular migration.
Additionally, it aims to position Italy as a hub for energy supplies from Africa to Europe, particularly as the continent seeks to lessen its reliance on Russian oil and gas following the invasion of Ukraine.
“We will also sign a series of agreements in the health sector and in support of small-and-medium-sized enterprises and investment,” stated Meloni, highlighting the comprehensive nature of the collaboration.
Joining Meloni and von der Leyen on the visit will be Belgian Prime Minister Alexander de Croo. The leaders will meet with Egyptian President Abdel Fatah el-Sisi, marking an effort to strengthen relations between Egypt and the European Union.
“The trip underscores the commitment to bolstering ties between Egypt and the European Union,” noted a European Commission spokesperson on Friday. They highlighted the significance of Egypt as a key partner in addressing irregular migration from North Africa to the bloc.
Belgium currently holds the six-month presidency of the Council of the European Union, and plays a central role in facilitating these diplomatic efforts.
