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Tchad-Emirats Arabes Unis : Le Chef de l’État a reçu le diplomate émirien au Tchad

Le Président de la République, Chef de l’État, le Maréchal du Tchad, MAHAMAT IDRISS DEBY ITNO, a accordé ce midi une audience à l’Ambassadeur Extraordinaire et Plénipotentiaire des Émirats Arabes Unis au Tchad, M. Rashed Saeed Alshamsi. Ce dernier est porteur d’un message de son Président à son homologue tchadien.

En juin dernier, le Président de la République, Chef de l’État, le Maréchal du Tchad, MAHAMAT IDRISS DEBY ITNO, avait effectué une visite officielle à Abou Dhabi, à l’invitation de Son Altesse, Cheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Président des Émirats Arabes Unis. C’est en droite ligne des discussions entamées en terre émirienne que Son Altesse a dépêché ce mercredi 21 octobre 2026 son ambassadeur accrédité au Tchad, M. Rashed Saeed Al Shamsi, auprès de son frère, le Maréchal du Tchad.

Le diplomate émirien est porteur d’un pli confidentiel. Son Altesse, Cheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Président des Émirats Arabes Unis, invite par ce message son homologue tchadien à prendre part, en janvier 2027, à la Semaine du développement durable d’Abu Dhabi, a indiqué M. Rashed Saeed Al Shamsi à sa sortie d’audience.

Distribué par APO Group pour Présidence de la République du Tchad.

  1. HealthcareYear Two Marks a Turning Point in Sierra Leone’s Cataract Outreach, and Opens the Door to a Bigger, Faster, More Connected Year ThreeOctober marks a global moment for eye‑health advocacy, and Sierra Leone’s most anticipated cataract outreach campaign is entering a new phase of acceleration in the fight against avoidable blindness. The influential campaign is delivered by Choithram International Foundation (https://www.Choithrams.com/) in association with Noor Dubai Foundation, led by CEO Dr. Manal Taryam as part of Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), and the Ministry of Health, Sierra Leone alongside Choithram Memorial Hospital, reflecting a shared commitment to world‑class eye care and the elimination of preventable blindness. Download Document: https://apo-opa.co/4ihCOKT Download Infographic: https://apo-opa.co/4z72uky Conceived in 2024, the multi‑year initiative has restored sight to thousands of Sierra Leoneans through free cataract surgeries, community screenings, and long‑term capacity building. Cataracts remain the leading cause of blindness in the country, where the 2021 RAAB study found that 5.4% of adults over 50 are blind, with cataracts responsible for nearly 60% of cases. A newly published peer-reviewed study in BMJ Open provides important evidence from the programme's first implementation cycle, demonstrating improvements in patients' vision-related quality of life while highlighting the operational challenges and adaptations necessary to deliver cataract services in resource-constrained settings. A Year of Acceleration The second surgical cycle, conducted between March and August 2026, marked a turning point. More than 5,768 adults were screened or consulted, 2,460 received medical treatment, and 1,522 cataract surgeries were performed, all this while also managing additional surgical interventions and referrals. It makes Year Two one of the largest eye‑care outreach efforts in Sierra Leone’s history, with patients travelling from across the country and neighbouring Guinea and Liberia, underscoring the programme’s growing regional reach and influence. Capacity building, a core goal of the campaign, has also seen a clear uptick. Seventeen ophthalmic professionals were trained across clinical and surgical roles, including cataract surgeons, ophthalmology nurses, OT nurses, and registrars, further strengthening the country’s long‑term eye‑care workforce. WHO (World Health Organization) notes that more than 80% of global vision impairment is preventable or treatable, underscoring the importance of programmes that combine service delivery with long‑term capacity building. This aligns with WHO’s 2030 global eye‑care targets, which call for major increases in effective cataract surgical coverage and sustained investment in national eye‑health systems. Two operating theatres ran simultaneously at Choithram Memorial Hospital, supported by Sierra Leonean staff trained through monthly exchanges with Choithram Netralaya (India). Every patient received surgery, medication, transport, accommodation, and follow‑up care at no cost, establishing a model that continues to set a benchmark for accessible eye care in the region. To help ensure that the programme delivers lasting impact, researchers Dr Gabriel Osei-Anokye and Dr Ving Fai Chan from Queen’s University Belfast (QUB) and Dr M Mansur Rabiu from Noor Dubai Foundation are leading a comprehensive evaluation. The evaluation examines programme efficiency, patient satisfaction, quality of care, and changes in patients’ quality of life following cataract surgery. Aligned with WHO standards, the research assesses not only improvements in vision and clinical outcomes, but also the wider psychosocial and socioeconomic benefits of restoring sight among people who have limited access to cataract services. Drawing on expertise in global health and eye care, the team is generating evidence to identify what works, where improvements can be made, and how lessons from the programme can inform future outreach. These findings will support the continued strengthening and sustainability of cataract services in Sierra Leone and provide learning that may be relevant to similar programmes elsewhere. Human Impact at the Centre For many beneficiaries, restored sight means restored independence. One patient, Isatu Kamara, shared: “My right eye is now very bright. I am happy with the result and I look forward to coming back next year for the left eye.” Such stories reflect the programme’s broader social impact, enabling farmers to return to work, caregivers to regain mobility, and older adults to reconnect with their families. Quality of life improves immediately, restoring dignity and participation in socio‑economic life. Independent Evaluation Published in BMJ Open Strengthens the Evidence Base A peer-reviewed study published in BMJ Open on 9 October 2026 evaluated the programme's first implementation cycle (February–August 2025), examining its achievements, operational challenges and adaptations during implementation. Led by researchers from Queen's University Belfast and programme partners Noor Dubai Foundation, the study reported that 9,117 individuals were screened and 1,433 cataract surgeries performed in Year One of the cycle. Among 271 patients with complete follow-up assessments, vision-related quality of life improved significantly by an average of 17 points, particularly in mental health, near-vision and distance-vision activities. Beyond these achievements, the evaluation highlighted important challenges, including workforce limitations, transportation barriers, incomplete clinical records and low postoperative follow-up attendance, with only 19% returning at one month. The findings emphasise that successful cataract outreach requires more than delivering surgeries; it also depends on effective referral pathways, continuity of care and responsive programme management. Lessons from the first cycle have helped identify opportunities to strengthen subsequent implementation cycles and offer valuable insights for similar programmes in resource-constrained settings. Voices from the Partnership Mr. L.T. Pagarani, Chairman, Choithrams Group “Goodness inspires more goodness, and this second year of our cataract outreach shows exactly that. After restoring sight for hundreds of people in our first cycle, we returned with even greater resolve to deepen our collaborative action. We are grateful to the Government of Sierra Leone, especially the Ministry of Health, for their partnership, and to Noor Dubai Foundation for their leadership and guidance. Above all, we honour the dedication of our doctors and staff whose work makes this impact possible. The celebration of restored vision belongs as much to the beneficiaries as it does to all of us who believe in the power of service to society.” Drs. Gabriel Osei-Anokye and Ving Fai Chan, Queen’s University Belfast “The progress we see in this second year is the careful reflection, rigorous evaluation, and a shared commitment to learning from the first cycle. Our research shows that when cataract programmes use evidence to continually improve how services are delivered, the benefits extend far beyond better vision. People regain mobility, confidence, independence, and the ability to participate more fully in their families and communities. Sierra Leone’s experience shows how strong leadership, continuous learning, and cross-sector collaboration can deliver high-quality outcomes even in challenging settings. Restoring sight is therefore more than a medical intervention; it is about enabling people to regain independence, opportunity, and their place in community life.” Looking Ahead: A Bigger, Faster, More Connected Year Three The programme now moves into its third cycle, scheduled from January to April 2027, marking another step in Sierra Leone’s long‑term journey toward eliminating avoidable blindness. With approximately 80 working days earmarked for clinical interventions, partners aim to perform 2,500 to 3,000 cataract surgeries, the most ambitious target yet, reflecting rising demand and growing national capacity. Preparations are already underway. Level 1 screenings began on 1 September, with a deliberate focus on rural provinces where access to eye care remains limited. Strengthening collaboration with district health authorities is central to this next phase, ensuring increased referrals and earlier identification of at‑risk patients. Operationally, Year Three will rely on the expanded cadre of Sierra Leonean ophthalmic staff trained during the first two cycles, supported by ongoing mentorship from Choithram Netralaya (India). With an average of 40 surgeries per day, the programme is moving steadily toward domestic clinical self‑sufficiency while maintaining world‑class standards of care. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Choithram International Foundation. Links to additional content: Testimonials of beneficiaries in links below: Link 1: https://apo-opa.co/4z9MeiU https://apo-opa.co/4sms9mL Please refer to the following study for implementation lessons from a high‑-volume cataract screening and surgical programme in Sierra Leone: Full paper available at: https://apo-opa.co/4z5wX2z Detailed Year 1 Report Link: https://apo-opa.co/4yXEnEM Detailed Year 1 Ophthalmic Training Report Link: https://apo-opa.co/47udPiv The Infographic Shows Effective Management for Sustainable Outcomes: How Sierra Leone’s Cataract Outreach Model Restores Sight Through Coordinated Planning, Collaboration, and Data‑-Driven Impact. About Noor Dubai Foundation, Dubai, UAE: Noor Dubai was launched with the vision of a world free from avoidable causes of blindness. therapeutic, preventative and educational programmes to treat and prevent blindness and visual impairment in developing countries on a regional and international scale. Following the success achieved of reaching out to over 5.8 million individuals worldwide in its first year, a decree was passed by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, launching the Noor Dubai Foundation as a non-governmental, non-for-profit organization, aiming to eliminate all forms of preventable blindness globally. About Queen’s University Belfast, UK: About Choithram Netralaya – Indore, India: Choithram Netralaya is a one-stop solution for all eye problems, and provides comprehensive eye care services covering Cataracts, glaucoma, Orbit & Oculoplasty, Cornea & Retina, Paediatric Ophthalmology, Community Ophthalmology, Ocular Oncology, Corneal Transplant, Squint, Ocular Trauma, Neuro-Ophthalmology, Uveitis, Low vision aids & visual rehabilitation, Ocular Prosthesis, and Ophthalmic Anaesthesia, among other services. About Choithram Memorial Hospital, Freetown, Sierra Leone: Choithram Memorial Hospital (CMH) is a leading multispecialty healthcare provider in Freetown, Sierra Leone, committed to delivering high-quality, accessible medical care. Established in 1993, CMH has grown into one of the country’s most trusted hospitals, offering a wide range of services, including cardiology, neurology, ophthalmology, and emergency care. Situated on a five-acre campus, the hospital is equipped with modern facilities and a dedicated team of medical professionals. CMH plays a vital role in Sierra Leone’s healthcare ecosystem, providing comprehensive treatment while ensuring affordability and accessibility for all patients
  2. AIPresident El-Sisi Attends "Homeland and Citizen Security" Session on 3rd Day of Egypt Forum 2026On October 21, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi participated in a session on "Homeland and Citizen Security", held on the third day of the Egypt Forum 2026. Prime Minister Dr. Moustafa Madbouly and Minister of Defense and Military Production, Lieutenant General Ashraf Salem Zaher attended and Minister of Interior Major General Mahmoud Tawfik, Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Egyptian Expatriates Dr. Badr Abdelatty and the Chief of the Armed Forces Operations Authority, also Head of the National Authority for Crisis and Emergency Management Lieutenant General Mohamed Abdel Rahman Rabie participated in the session. The Spokesman for the Presidency, Ambassador Mohamed El-Shennawy, stated that the session started with screening of film that highlighted the efforts of state institutions, mainly the Ministry of Interior, to ensure security and safety for citizens, particularly since January 2011. The Minister of Interior outlined the efforts undertaken to advance the security apparatus, combat criminal activity, restore security to Egyptian streets, and ensure a rapid response to citizens' reports. As an example, he noted a significant decline in vehicle thefts—a reduction of 94%. He further explained that the Ministry of Interior has implemented a comprehensive strategy to reshape security operations in light of evolving criminal tactics. This strategy is built upon five pillars: upgrading police facilities and equipping them with modern technology to keep pace with advancements across various sectors; establishing an integrated, science-based security framework that utilizes AI and early detection of criminal patterns to devise effective countermeasures—a process that required modernizing operations centers across all governorates and linking them to a central hub; developing human capital—a prerequisite for the success of this framework—which involved creating new specialized security functions, including units focused on cybercrime, intellectual property, and the early monitoring of terrorist organizations; fostering public awareness to serve as a vital line of defense against attempts to undermine national stability and public safety; and finally modernizing penal policies regarding convicts. The Chief of the Armed Forces Operations Authority, also Head of the National Authority for Crisis and Emergency Management, outlined the operational mechanisms of both the In his remarks, the Minister of Foreign Affairs noted that foreign policy has become a matter of interest to all segments of Egyptian society primarily because it is an extension of domestic policy and the two are interconnected. An effective foreign policy stems from domestic stability, while events abroad, in turn, impact the internal situation. He noted that Egypt is surrounded by nations experiencing crises and conflicts, which directly concern Egypt’s national security. He highlighted that Egypt maintains strategic ties and partnerships with various global powers, managing them with wisdom in accordance with the doctrine of "strategic balance" established by the President. Regarding Red Sea security, he noted that Egypt is working to achieve security and stability, in cooperation with the littoral states, by fostering partnerships across various sectors—including logistics, the economy, and tourism development. As for the African sphere, the Minister emphasized that Egypt’s economic and developmental future is intrinsically linked to development across Africa. He noted that the President has made 38 visits to African nations—an unprecedented number—underscoring that this outreach strengthens solidarity with the African countries. The Minister of Foreign Affairs described the issue of water security as an existential matter, asserting that the lives of 110 million Egyptians can not be made contingent upon the unilateral will of any other party. He stressed that Egypt merely calls for the application of international law. He further outlined the principles guiding Egypt’s policy toward the Horn of Africa: non-interference in the internal affairs of other states; respect for the unity and sovereignty of these nations—with a firm rejection of any secession, partition, or fragmentation in the Horn of Africa and the facilitation of maritime access through coordination and agreement with neighboring states. The Minister reaffirmed Egypt’s historic ties with Sudan, emphasizing its support for Sudan's unity and stability. He stated that Egypt will not permit the division of Sudan, nor will it allow the collapse of its state institutions. Furthermore, he noted that Egypt continues to engage with other regional stakeholders to pursue a political solution in Sudan. Regarding the Palestinian issue, the Minister reaffirmed the President’s steadfast position that rejects the displacement of Palestinians. He also highlighted Egypt’s ongoing efforts to ensure the continued flow of humanitarian aid, which exceeded one million tons, through the Rafah crossing, while working to preserve the Palestinian cause against schemes aimed at its liquidation and striving to achieve Palestinian consensus. The President made an intervention to emphasize that undermining state institutions is a recurring tactic intended to cause the collapse of states—a pattern clearly evident during 2011. The President pointed out that the Armed Forces and the Ministry of Interior serve as the two pillars of national security, noting that the Ministry of Interior remains a target. The President further observed that a review of events over the past few years reveals that the idea of ​​targeting and building a negative impression of the Ministry of Interior's practices is persistent, and that there is sometimes unintentional participation in building this impression through daily interaction with events. In this regard, the President stressed that this places a burden on the Ministry of Interior to adopt initiatives to improve and maintain the public's perception of the Ministry. The President reiterated that the targeting of the security institution in 2011 was among the objectives of implementing the plan against the Egyptian State. President El-Sisi emphasized the necessity of preserving state institutions, noting that the failure to protect them is what leads to the collapse of states, which in turn causes severe problems. The President pointed out that the current situation in the region illustrates this reality. President El-Sisi emphasized the need to refresh public memory and shed light on the events of 2011 to ensure that they are not repeated. The President referred to the attacks targeting security forces, the storming of police stations and prisons, and the escape of 33,000 prisoners, along with the resulting repercussions. President El-Sisi mentioned that what had been accomplished regarding the construction, redevelopment, and modernization of reform and rehabilitation centers, stemmed from an ethical, religious, and humanitarian perspective, ensuring the principle that a person should not be punished twice for the same offense. Accordingly, the focus was placed on rebuilding individuals' character and transforming convicted persons into productive members of society. This prompted the state to convert prisons into correctional and rehabilitation centers. The President underscored the importance of arranging visits to these centers to assess the efforts made in this regard. President El-Sisi reaffirmed that the massive damage inflicted on the country before 2011 had prompted the state to consider a new approach to the security sector's responsibilities concerning detention conditions, an area that is also being targeted. The President therefore instructed the Ministries of Defense and Interior to develop ideas and initiatives for maintaining continuous communication with the Egyptian people, ensuring that no rift occurs between the people and state institutions. President El-Sisi stated that the fundamental constants of Egypt's foreign policy since 2014 have been based on non-interference in the internal affairs of other states, refraining from conspiracies, preserving the unity of the nation-state and its institutions, refusing to engage with armed militias, cooperating in reconstruction, development, and nation-building, and pursuing positive engagement through balanced relations with all parties. The President stressed the need to to adhere to strategic balance and avoid letting the state be driven into taking actions or steps based on popular pressure. The Minister noted that the volume of treated water being reused had reached 23.2 billion cubic meters annually. These efforts aim to protect citizens from the effects of any unilateral measures that might be taken, mitigate the consequences of climate change, and respond to population growth. He also reviewed details of several projects implemented in Egypt to secure water supplies. With regard to the Ethiopian dam, the Minister noted that Egypt had exercised patience and consistently handled the situation with calm at all times. The Egyptian state had done everything within its power on this issue, both through negotiations and through the Declaration of Principles agreement, which served as a step toward demonstrating Egypt's good intentions toward the Ethiopian people. Unfortunately, however, the Ethiopian side failed to implement the Declaration of Principles. The Minister further explained that negotiations hosted by Washington had resulted in an agreement approved by the Ethiopian and Sudanese sides, as well as Egypt. The agreement was balanced and served the interests of all parties. However, the Ethiopian side withdrew before signing it. Matters subsequently evolved into different tracks that yielded no results until the Egyptian state decided not to continue negotiations. The Minister also pointed out that the Nile Basin comprises more than just Ethiopia. During President El-Sisi's tenure, Egypt's relations with the other countries of the southern Nile Basin had reached their highest levels. This cooperation had taken various forms, including Egyptian investments totaling $120 million in these countries; projects involving water wells, dams, and flood protection; technical support for establishing meteorological forecasting centers; and reciprocal visits. The Minister noted that solutions were available, but achieving them required the necessary goodwill from all parties. He noted that it would be possible to establish an electricity grid connecting Egypt with all Nile Basin countries. Consequently, electricity should not be used as a justification for building dams, since electricity is a technical issue that can be resolved in the future. He added that if the goals of building dams were to share water resources, the Nile Basin countries receive approximately 7,000 billion cubic meters of rainfall, which could be harnessed, collected, and directed toward agriculture, drinking water, or industry. The Minister explained that the Nile Basin's annual water resources range from 1,600 to 2,000 billion cubic meters, while Egypt receives 55.5 billion cubic meters annually. This represents less than 3% of the rainfall across the Nile Basin countries. This indicates that there is no water shortage across the Nile Basin as a whole, whereas Egypt faces a water crisis because of its limited water resources. Accordingly, Egypt and the other Nile Basin countries could cooperate to harness available water resources and achieve mutual benefits for all countries in the basin. President El-Sisi concluded his remarks by emphasizing the need to continue strengthening Egypt's capabilities and ensuring that Egyptian public opinion remains resolute and strong, given the numerous risks facing the country, which are not limited to the Ethiopian dam. The President added that Arab national security is indivisible, stressing that the stability of Egypt's brothers in the Gulf is a matter of concern to Egypt from a national security perspective. The President further emphasized the need to restore stability throughout the Arab world, including in Sudan, Libya, and Somalia, affirming that Egypt's support for the Gulf states is an extension of the shared Arab national security framework. President El-Sisi also pointed out that Egypt's military efforts are intended to defend the territory of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and do not include launching attacks on Yemen. The President reiterated that the objective is to defend the Kingdom's territory and borders, as well as the territory of any other Arab state if requested of Egypt, and that Egyptian military deployment does not extend beyond Egypt's borders except to aid a sisterly country whose security and stability Egypt is keen to safeguard. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Presidency of the Arab Republic of Egypt.
  3. FinanceOPEC Secretary General to Address Investors at Libya Energy & Economic Summit (LEES) 2027OPEC Secretary General Haitham Al Ghais will speak at the Libya Energy & Economic Summit in Tripoli (January 23–25), underscoring the organization's support for Libya's next phase of energy growth. Al Ghais’ participation comes as Libya accelerates efforts to raise production, attract international capital and modernize its upstream sector. The country’s National Oil Corporation (NOC) has laid out ambitious oil production targets in the near term and substantially higher output as investment flows into exploration and field development. As a leading voice in the global oil community, his participation brings a global market perspective to a summit increasingly focused on execution. OPEC expects oil demand to remain robust, while Al Ghais has repeatedly stressed the need for timely investment to prevent future supply constraints and maintain reliable energy security. Libya occupies a distinctive position within that outlook because of its substantial resource base and continued production growth. The country holds Africa’s largest proven crude reserves, while its light, sweet crude and proximity to European markets strengthen its strategic investment proposition. The Ministry of Oil and Gas is driving the policy and diplomatic agenda underpinning this expansion. Under Minister Dr. Khalifa Abdulsadek, Libya is advancing regulatory reforms, international partnerships and investment frameworks designed to support production growth while supporting the country’s role in regional and global energy markets. The NOC remains the commercial engine of that strategy, converting licensing opportunities into exploration, production and joint-venture activity. Chairman Masoud Suleiman is overseeing an investment drive spanning mature fields, new acreage, infrastructure and international partnerships. LEES 2027 will provide a direct platform for that strategy to reach global investors. The fifth edition will bring together governments, national oil companies, international operators, financiers and energy service companies to examine upstream opportunities, gas development, infrastructure, power and renewable energy. The summit has already established itself as a platform for major commercial engagement, with more than $20 billion in energy investments and deals associated with previous editions. With Secretary General Al Ghais joining the Ministry and NOC leadership, LEES 2027 will connect Libya’s investment agenda directly with the global oil market’s most influential institutional forum. For more information about LEES 2027 visit www.LibyaSummit.com and to sponsor or secure your participation as a delegate, please contact [email protected]. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.
  4. FinanceMalawi: Government Pledges Access to Justice to AllThe government has pledged to lobby the Judiciary for immediate interventions to address severe operational challenges hampering justice delivery in Neno District. Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs Charles Mhango made the commitment today during an inspection visit to the Neno Magistrate’s Court. During the tour, First Grade Magistrate Margaret Khobili outlined the critical bottlenecks facing the local bench, including poor road networks, difficult terrain, a severe lack of transport, and inadequate court infrastructure. Khobili noted that while Neno currently operates two magistrate courts, Neno and Lisungwi, communities in remote areas still struggle to access judicial services. To bridge this gap, she proposed establishing additional courts in Dambe, Chifunga, Ligowe, and Matope to bring services closer to the citizens. The magistrate further explained that transport challenges frequently prevent witnesses from attending court. This often disrupts scheduled proceedings and complicates the fair administration of justice. In response, Mhango assured judicial officers that many of these issues could be resolved through practical, targeted interventions, promising to engage the Judiciary leadership for swift support. He emphasised that access to justice is a cornerstone of good governance, the rule of law, and national development. The Minister warned that a lack of effective dispute-resolution mechanisms risks driving frustrated citizens to take the law into their own hands. To address funding shortfalls, Mhango highlighted the need for closer collaboration between the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, the Judiciary, Parliament, and other key sector stakeholders. He reiterated that modernising and expanding court facilities remains critical to ensuring all Malawians can access the legal system, regardless of their geographical location. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Justice, Malawi.
  5. EducationPresident El-Sisi Participates in Session on Food and Water Security on Day 3 of Egypt Forum 2026On October 21, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi participated in a session titled "Food and Water Security: Today’s Challenges and Future Guarantees," held on the third day of the Egypt Forum 2026. The session was attended by Prime Minister Dr. Moustafa Madbouly, Minister of Supply and Internal Trade Dr. Sherif Farouk, Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Dr. Hany Sewilam, Minister of Agriculture and Land Reclamation Alaa Farouk, and Head of the Future of Egypt Authority for Sustainable Development Dr. Bahaa El-Ghannam. Also in attendance were MP Ehab Mansour, Deputy Chair of the Manpower Committee; MP Abdel Moneim Imam, head of the Justice Party; Dr. Ahmed Ramadan, a lecturer at the Faculty of Agriculture, Fayoum University; and Eid Mersal, head of the General Union for Workers in Agriculture, Irrigation, Fisheries, and Land Reclamation. The Spokesman for the Presidency, Ambassador Mohamed El-Shennawy, said the session addressed the Egyptian state's efforts since 2014 to enhance the availability of food commodities and achieve food security. This included expanding and developing agricultural land and land reclamation. The session also reviewed state initiatives to ensure that subsidies reach those who truly deserve them, as well as efforts to strengthen the food subsidy system, maintain a stable strategic reserve of essential commodities, and increase the number and storage capacity of silos. President El-Sisi made an intervention to emphasize that the cash-based subsidy system the state intends to implement is more equitable, transparent, and well-governed. The President explained that data on citizens has been consolidated for inclusion in this system, ensuring full transparency and robust governance. Regarding matters related to supply agriculture, the President highlighted the importance of striving to maximize livestock production, noting the numerous benefits this would yield. The President emphasized that all governors, officials, head of villages and citizens should work toward the goal of replacing existing livestock breeds with improved ones to boost production. The President added that Egypt’s strategic reserves of essential commodities are sufficient for a period of six months, taking into account disruptions in supply chains and the geopolitical conditions in the region. With regard to water consumption topics, President El-Sisi raised the issue of water consumption approaches in Siwa, including well drilling, emphasizing the importance of state intervention to ensure the governance of this situation. In connection with matters relating to Egypt’s lakes, the President noted that, over the past decades, the lakes had been subjected to encroachments, neglect, and various violations, which had led to a decline in their fish production. The President highlighted the efforts undertaken by the State in this regard and its action to address encroachments and violations affecting the lakes. These efforts had resulted in restoring the lakes to their natural state, including Lake Bardawil, Lake Manzala, and Lake Nasser. In this context, President El-Sisi reiterated that the deterioration of state agencies and their inability to maintain control over the situation had necessitated the establishment of another entity to address the accumulated, long-standing challenges, particularly those affecting the lakes. The President reaffirmed that the goal was to restore the lakes to their natural state, which had prompted the State to assign responsibility for overseeing the lakes to the Future of Egypt Authority for Sustainable Development. The President expressed hope that fish production from these lakes would return to its normal levels, particularly in light of the substantial population growth. President El-Sisi also mentioned that the lakes had been subjected to various violations, including the discharge of sewage and agricultural drainage water into some of them. The President underscored that the State’s efforts would benefit citizens, particularly those in Port Said, Damietta, and Dakahlia. President El-Sisi pointed out that Egypt had gained experience in land reclamation over previous decades, but the results had not been as successful as hoped. The President highlighted that the achievements made in land reclamation since 2014 were unprecedented in both scale and significance. The President also indicated that the State was open to allowing the private sector to purchase reclaimed land, provided that the plots were sufficiently large to avoid the fragmentation of agricultural land, which had not been in Egypt’s best interests. President El-Sisi further highlighted the efforts undertaken since 2014 to reclaim land, affirming that the State was prepared to reclaim ten million feddans, provided that the necessary water resources were available. The President noted that the objective was to achieve tangible results, and for that purpose, the President insisted on implementing the New Delta project. The President outlined the extensive efforts and works undertaken as part of this massive national project, including the construction of large-scale water-lifting stations. In this regard, President El-Sisi underscored the importance of the role played by the Future of Egypt Authority for Sustainable Development. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Presidency of the Arab Republic of Egypt.
  6. HealthcareCourtesy Call on State Minister NAKASONE by His Excellency (H.E.) Mr. Ragui Eletreby, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Arab Republic of Egypt to JapanOn October 22, from 3:45 p.m. for approximately 30 minutes, Mr. NAKASONE Yasutaka, State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, received a courtesy call by H.E. Mr. Ragui Eletreby, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Arab Republic of Egypt to Japan. At the outset, State Minister NAKASONE touched upon the recent active exchange of high-level officials and the cooperation between Japan and Egypt in various fields such as agriculture, health, education, and transportation, and stated his intention to work together to further strengthen the traditional friendly relations and strategic partnership between the two countries. Ambassador Eletreby congratulated State Minister NAKASONE on his appointment and expressed his wish to further develop cooperation in a wide range of areas, including the field of education, such as the Egypt-Japan University of Science and Technology (E-JUST) and Egypt-Japan School (EJS). Both sides also exchanged views on regional situations in the Middle East and concurred on working toward further deepening bilateral relations. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.