Means to boost industrial integration, expanding local manufacturing and localising advanced technologies in the defence and civilian sectors were at the core of major talks held in Cairo on Monday.
The talks featured Chairman of the Arab Organisation for Industrialisation (AOI), Major General Mohamed Abdel Fattah Abu Bakr, and Minister of State for Military Production Major General Salah Gomblat.
The meeting was attended by AOI Director General Major General Abdel Rahman Othman, along with heads of AOI-affiliated factories and companies and executives from companies operating under the ministry.
The discussions focused on maximising the use of the two entities’ manufacturing capacities, enhancing co-operation on national development projects and supporting Egypt’s Vision 2030.
Both officials reaffirmed their commitment to President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi’s directives to deepen local manufacturing, facilitate technology transfer, reduce reliance on imports, boost exports and promote the ‘Made in Egypt’ initiative.
Gomblat outlined his ministry’s integrated industrial and technological base, comprising 15 industrial companies, four information systems and construction companies, a maintenance company and a centre for scientific and technological excellence.
These entities serve the needs of the Armed Forces and police, while surplus production is directed towards civilian industries and national development projects.
Abu Bakr, meanwhile, highlighted the AOI’s engineering expertise, advanced production lines and proven ability to design and manufacture products and components previously imported, in line with international quality standards.
He also stressed the organisation’s capacity to translate scientific innovations into practical industrial applications.
Both sides underscored the importance of establishing a joint co-ordination committee that would meet regularly to align priorities, strengthen co-operation in defence and civilian manufacturing, and co-ordinate national projects.
The proposed committee would also develop joint marketing strategies with clear timelines, co-ordinate the procurement of raw materials, expand export opportunities and explore new markets.
The two sides further highlighted the importance of strategic partnerships with domestic and international private-sector companies in promoting sustainable industrial growth and maximising national economic value.
