Minister of Local Development and Acting Minister of Environment, Manal Awad, met on Tuesday with a delegation from China’s Sichuan Province, led by Tian Xiangli, Chairwoman of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC).
Minister Awad voiced her appreciation for the strong and historic relations between Egypt and China and the strategic partnership that supports new joint projects and cooperation in various fields, particularly in local development and environmental work.
She highlighted the ministry’s interest in strengthening cultural and scientific ties, expanding educational and training exchanges for local administration cadres, and increasing study grants for Egyptian students and officials through cooperation with China.
Awad also affirmed the ministry’s readiness to coordinate with relevant Egyptian authorities to support Chinese companies from Sichuan Province seeking to invest in Egyptian governorates, noting the promising investment opportunities available and the government’s efforts to attract and facilitate foreign investment.
Minister Awad emphasized that the visit represents an important step toward enhancing bilateral cooperation and building a sustainable partnership between Egypt and Sichuan Province, reflecting both sides’ commitment to advancing mutual interests.
For her part, Xiangli thanked Awad for the warm welcome and expressed admiration for the New Administrative Capital, describing it as one of Egypt’s modern smart cities.
She also praised the cultural and tourist sites she visited in Cairo and affirmed China’s appreciation for Egypt’s pivotal role in the Belt and Road Initiative.
The Chinese official expressed hope for deeper cooperation between the two countries in the coming period, particularly in economic, investment, commercial, tourism, and cultural fields, as well as through training and educational programs for Egyptian students and local cadres in China.
