Egypt, Japan strengthen ties in urban development
Egypt’s Minister of Housing Sherif El-Sherbiny met with the Ambassador of Japan in Cairo Fumio Iwai to discuss opportunities for enhancing collaboration between the two nations in various common areas, as per a Cabinet statement.
El-Sherbiny emphasised the Egyptian state’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with Japan, particularly with the Ministry of Housing, according to the statement.
He highlighted the current partnership with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) on land use impact studies in Greater Cairo to identify factors influencing urban expansion for sustainable development.
He also showed interest in enhancing collaboration in drinking water and wastewater utilities by fostering partnerships between Egyptian and Japanese firms. This would include transferring and localising modern technologies in water treatment, sewage, and desalination to boost local production of necessary equipment and materials.
El-Sherbiny presented the Egyptian state’s efforts in urban development and the construction of new cities, foremost among them the New Administrative Capital (NAC), as per the statement.
He detailed plans to maximise the value of land portfolios and housing units held by the New Urban Communities Authority (NUCA), complete ongoing projects for optimal benefit, and offer incentives to support investment.
The ambassador expressed his country’s desire to deepen cooperation with Egypt, particularly in the areas of infrastructure and fourth-generation cities, given the advanced technologies that Japanese companies possess in these fields.
Furthermore, he praised Egypt’s recent achievements in urban development, including the expansion of new cities, utility projects, and other comprehensive development initiatives, the statement added.
Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English
Subediting: M. S. Salama