Cairo and Beirut seek deeper economic integration through private sector and infrastructure projects
Speaking at an economic forum at the Beirut Chamber of Commerce and Industry on Friday, Madbouly stated that Egypt views Lebanon as a pivotal and strategic economic partner rather than merely a political ally. He emphasised that the Egyptian government considers the private sector the true engine of growth and believes that Egyptian-Lebanese co-operation, if properly invested, can serve as a successful model for Arab economic integration.
During expanded bilateral discussions at the Government Palace with Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, the two sides reviewed the implementation of agreements reached during the Egyptian-Lebanese Joint Higher Committee held in Cairo last month. Madbouly noted that while trade has grown steadily over the past four years, it remains below the potential of both countries, prompting a commitment to remove procedural barriers and encourage direct partnerships between Egyptian and Lebanese firms.
A central pillar of the talks focused on the urgent requirements for reconstruction in Lebanon, particularly in the south.