Egypt and World Bank Deepen Strategic Partnership for Sustainable Development
Cairo – Egypt’s Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Ahmed Rostom, convened with a high-level delegation from the World Bank, led by Country Director for Egypt, Yemen, and Djibouti, Stéphane Guimbert, on February 22, 2026, to discuss strengthening their strategic partnership and securing technical support for Egypt’s development plans.
Enhancing Bilateral Cooperation
The meeting centered on enhancing bilateral cooperation and bolstering Egypt’s annual and medium-term development strategies. Discussions highlighted the critical need for improved public investment efficiency and sustainable, human-development-driven growth [Egyptian State Information Service]. The World Bank reaffirmed its commitment to providing technical assistance and expertise to the Egyptian government [Daily News Egypt].
Prioritizing the Egyptian Citizen
Rostom emphasized the importance of coordination between the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation to maximize the benefits of international partnerships and accelerate structural reforms [Egyptian Gazette]. He stated that the ministry’s current focus is on preparing the annual development plan and a three-year medium-term framework, prioritizing “the Egyptian citizen at the heart of the development process” [See News].
Novel Strategy Focus: Efficiency and Job Creation
The updated strategy prioritizes the efficient allocation of public investments to deliver measurable social returns and stimulate economic clusters capable of generating employment opportunities. These efforts directly support Egypt’s social protection framework, including the Takaful and Karama cash transfer program, which aids the most vulnerable populations [See News]. The government also remains committed to the “Decent Life” (Haya Karima) initiative, with plans to accelerate the second and third phases in line with presidential directives [Egyptian Gazette].
World Bank Support Areas
The World Bank’s support will encompass strengthening financial governance through public expenditure reviews, enhancing domestic resource mobilization, and supporting a sound medium-term fiscal framework [Daily News Egypt]. Cooperation will also extend to the social protection and health sectors, including analytical support for Egypt’s comprehensive health insurance system and reinforcing economic resilience through the development of economic clusters to create job opportunities [Daily News Egypt].
Integrated Model for Sustainable Development
Rostom highlighted a shift towards a more integrated cooperation model with the World Bank, balancing fiscal discipline with increased social investment, focusing on job creation and human development [Egyptian Gazette]. The government’s approach extends beyond economic growth to building a resilient and sustainable economy that meets the aspirations of its citizens.