Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Kerrie Symmonds (right) in discussion with non-resident Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt to Barbados, Dr. Sherif Reda Ahmed Shehata, at the Ministry’s Culloden Road, St. Michael office, recently. (D. Best/BGIS)
Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Kerrie Symmonds, has underscored the need for structured dialogue between Barbados and Egypt to foster the development of a mutually beneficial partnership.
Mr. Symmonds expressed this view during a recent courtesy call with the non-resident Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt to Barbados, Dr. Sherif Reda Ahmed Shehata, at the Ministry’s Culloden Road, St. Michael office.
During their discussions, both officials agreed that Barbados can serve as a hub for relations between Egypt and the region and emphasised that consultation is necessary to explore future opportunities for investment flows.
Ambassador Shehata noted the need to establish a mechanism for political consultation to bridge any gaps in information and understanding between the two countries. He also observed that the presence of international organisations in Barbados was a good sign.
“I see a number of foreign enterprises around the island…. This is a sign that you have a foreign economy, and foreign investments are being made….”
Minister Symmonds concurred, adding that there is a greater sense of confidence in private investment benefits, and Barbados’ growth trajectory is expected to continue.
He suggested that future discussions should explore niche areas aligned with the strengths and predispositions of the Barbadian population. “If we can find the right interventions, then we can connect,” he stated.
Other topics addressed included Egypt’s interest in investment in Barbados, synergies in tourism, the establishment of a trade partnership, strengthening of Barbados’ pharmaceutical industry, energy development goals, climate change, and sustainable development.
Barbados and Egypt established diplomatic relations on November 3, 2006.
Author: Dionne Best
Source: https://gisbarbados.gov.bb/blog/stronger-partnership-needed-between-barbados-egypt/
