MM Rahmatullah: The Ambassador of Egypt to Bangladesh, Omar Mohie Eldin Ahmed Fahmy, paid a courtesy call on State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Monday, reaffirming the strong and growing bilateral relations between the two nations.

During the meeting, both sides highlighted the longstanding friendship between Bangladesh and Egypt and explored avenues to further strengthen cooperation across multiple sectors. The State Minister expressed gratitude to the Egyptian government for hosting a significant number of Bangladeshi students and professionals. She particularly welcomed Egypt’s recent decision to double the number of fully funded scholarships for Bangladeshi students from 12 to 24.

Talks focused on expanding collaboration in key areas including trade and investment, energy, infrastructure, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, jute and manpower. Emphasis was also placed on enhancing cultural and educational exchanges between the two countries.

Ambassador Fahmy reiterated Egypt’s commitment to broadening cooperation, especially in recruiting skilled and semi-skilled manpower, and deepening partnerships in energy, agriculture and cultural sectors. He assured continued support from Egypt for Bangladesh’s development efforts.

The State Minister underscored the importance of boosting people-to-people contacts through cultural and sports exchanges and stressed the need for a mutual visa waiver agreement to facilitate smoother interactions. She also called for regular bilateral engagements and high-level visits to further consolidate ties.

Reaffirming Cairo’s strong commitment, the Ambassador expressed optimism about advancing the “brotherly relations” between Bangladesh and Egypt in the coming years.