Egypt and france deepen strategic partnership amid surge in trade and cultural exchange

Egypt’s Ambassador to France, Alaa Youssef, has hailed a new era of dynamic cooperation between Cairo and Paris, highlighting the recent elevation of bilateral ties to the level of strategic partnership following French President Emmanuel Macron’s official visit to Egypt in April.
Speaking during a commemorative reception held at Beit Misr (House of Egypt) within the International University Campus in Paris to mark the anniversary of the July 23 Revolution, Ambassador Youssef emphasized the flourishing nature of Egyptian-French relations.
“Egyptian-French relations are witnessing growing momentum,” he stated, citing increased cooperation in health, transportation, and renewable energy.
Youssef underscored the economic dimension of the partnership, noting that France remains one of Egypt’s most vital trade and investment partners.
“There has been significant growth in trade volume between our two countries in recent years,” he affirmed.
The event was attended by prominent French officials, members of the diplomatic corps, and a large gathering of Egyptian expatriates. It also featured participation from Dr.
Khaled El-Enany, Egypt’s former Minister of Tourism and Antiquities and the country’s official candidate for the position of UNESCO Director-General.
Ambassador Youssef praised El-Enany’s substantial contributions to heritage restoration and cultural infrastructure, including the Grand Egyptian Museum and the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization.
Turning to educational ties, the ambassador celebrated recent achievements in academic collaboration.
“The Egyptian-French Universities Forum held at Cairo University witnessed the signing of 42 cooperation protocols between 13 Egyptian universities and 22 French universities,” he said.
In his address, Youssef reflected on the broader symbolism of Beit Misr, describing it as a “shining cultural and civilizational beacon for Egypt in the heart of Paris” and a testament to Egypt’s commitment to supporting its youth abroad.
Commemorating the July 23 Revolution, the ambassador called it “one of the greatest revolutions of the 20th century,” noting its influence beyond Egypt’s borders.
He also linked the revolution’s principles to the June 30, 2013 Revolution, describing them as foundational to Egypt’s current path under the New Republic—a national vision grounded in development, citizenship, freedom, and the rule of law.
The ambassador concluded by highlighting Egypt and France’s close diplomatic alignment on pressing regional and global issues.
“This cooperation constitutes a true pillar of stability in a world facing multiple crises,” he remarked, adding that the partnership is built on “trust and mutual respect.”
The reception was attended by foreign diplomats, senior members of the Egyptian diplomatic mission in Paris, Bishop Mark of the Coptic Orthodox Church in Northern France, and numerous members of the Egyptian community in France.