Egypt, DR Congo in talks to boost trade, regional integration

Egypt’s Minister of Investment and Foreign Trade Hassan El Khatib held talks with Deputy Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) Guylain Nyembo Mbwizya to explore ways of strengthening economic relations between the two countries.

The meeting covered various trade, industrial and investment areas, as well as shared continental priorities.

El Khatib stressed Egypt’s commitment to boosting intra-African trade and joint investment, in line with the country’s strategy to promote regional integration and sustainable economic partnerships. He added that the strong political ties between Egypt and DR Congo provide a solid foundation for deeper cooperation.

El Khatib underlined the importance of joint efforts in infrastructure and logistical connectivity, which he described as key to enabling regional trade, linking African markets, and generating new economic opportunities. He also highlighted Egypt’s significant investments over the past decade in infrastructure and new city development.

The minister pointed to major continental projects Egypt is promoting, including a high-speed rail link connecting African countries and a network of regional logistics hubs aimed at facilitating trade and market access, alongside support for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

He also stressed opportunities for cooperation in renewable energy, particularly solar power, and noted Egypt’s progress in digital transformation and government services reform to enhance the investment environment.

For his part, Mbwizya expressed DR Congo’s interest in strengthening cooperation with Egypt, particularly in infrastructure, energy, and agriculture, and welcomed the opportunity to benefit from Egypt’s expertise in these priority sectors.

Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English
Subediting: M. S. Salama