Thursday 31 Oct

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Egypt, EU: Investment pact to fight migration


Egypt, EU: Investment pact to fight migration

Egypt and the European Union have agreed on the importance of attracting more European investments to Egypt, and fostering decent job opportunities for young people within their communities. This collaborative approach aims to tackle irregular migration at its root.

This came during the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' hosting of the fourth round of high-level dialogue on migration, chaired by Ambassador Khaled Amara, Assistant Foreign Minister for European Affairs, and Ambassador Simon Mordue, Deputy Secretary-General of the European External Action Service, in the presence of representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, state agencies concerned with the migration file, and the Ministries of Education, Higher Education, International Cooperation, Social Solidarity, and Manpower, as well as the National Coordinating Committee for Combating and Preventing Irregular Migration and Human Trafficking.

The discussions focused on a comprehensive analysis of all migration issues of mutual interest. Key elements influencing migration were examined, including its developmental benefits, regional dynamics, root causes of irregular migration (political, security, economic, and social aspects), and methods to combat illegal migration, migrant smuggling, and human trafficking. The link between migration and legal movement was explored through discussions on the upcoming EU Pact on Migration and Asylum expected to enter into force in 2026 and its impact on migrant rights.  Additionally, protection, asylum, return, readmission, and reintegration were addressed as crucial aspects of managing migration effectively.

Both parties emphasized strengthening legal channels for migration and mobility, underlining the need for a balanced and comprehensive approach.

The dialogue fostered mutual understanding, information exchange, and the sharing of best practices and expertise. It also supported capacity building for Egyptian personnel working to combat illegal migration, aligning with Egypt's identified needs.

The dialogue sessions highlighted the critical role of Egypt's stability and development efforts in ensuring regional security and the European Union. Egypt's significant efforts to preventing illegal migration since September 2016 were also acknowledged.

Furthermore, it was noted that Egypt bears the responsibility of hosting more than 10 million migrants and refugees.

Egypt and the European Union (EU) held consultations and agreed on the importance of attracting more European investments to Egypt and creating decent job opportunities for young people within their communities. The EU also pledged to increase its support for Egypt's efforts in combating irregular migration.