Azerbaijan interested in Egypt's experience in creating smart cities

Egyptian Minister of Planning and Economic Development Ahmed Rostom and Azerbaijani Ambassador to Cairo Elhan Polukhov discussed economic partnership between the two countries during a meeting in Egypt, Report informs referring to the Egyptian Ministry of Planning and Economic Development.

The sides discussed ways of strengthening bilateral cooperation, advancing economic relations between the two countries and exchanging expertise in the field of sustainable development.

The meeting comes amid growing momentum in Egyptian-Azerbaijani relations, supported directly by President Abdel Fattah El Sisi and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev.

During an expanded meeting, Rostom expressed his deep appreciation for the historic and strategic partnership between Egypt and Azerbaijan, emphasizing his aspiration to work closely with Azerbaijan's Ministry of Economy to exchange perspectives and shape a new phase of economic cooperation that supports development efforts in both countries.

He highlighted the significant capabilities and opportunities available on both sides that can be leveraged to achieve shared growth and prosperity.

The minister reviewed Egypt's extensive experience in structural economic reform and comprehensive development, underscoring the country's success in maintaining macroeconomic stability and implementing a flexible national vision aimed at empowering the private sector and attracting investment despite ongoing regional and global geopolitical challenges.

He also highlighted Egypt's adoption of advanced digital mechanisms to monitor progress toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Rostom praised the successful outcomes of previous sessions of the Egyptian-Azerbaijani Joint Committee, noting that they had effectively opened new avenues for cooperation across various sectors.

He stressed that the current period presents an ideal opportunity to capitalize on the strengths and capabilities of both countries in a manner that directly supports development efforts and accelerates the growth of bilateral economic ties.

For his part, Polukhov asserted Azerbaijan's strong appreciation for its longstanding and robust relations with Egypt, emphasizing the commitment of both countries' leaderships to continuously strengthen cooperation in line with current priorities.

He particularly highlighted the positive outcomes of El-Sisi's landmark visit to Baku and Aliyev's visit to Cairo.

Polukhov outlined ongoing preparations for the upcoming Annual Meetings of the Islamic Development Bank Group in Baku, as well as Azerbaijan's hosting of the next summit of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).

These events will feature discussions and the adoption of major regional and development projects with significant international impact.

He further emphasized Azerbaijan's keen interest in benefiting from Egypt's pioneering experience and extensive expertise in developing smart cities and building infrastructure that supports a green economy.