Egypt seeks port integration with Slovenia
Cairo also wants a labour migration pact to send Egyptian workers to meet Slovenian demand.
Egypt aims to connect its national seaports with Slovenia’s Port of Koper and secure a labour migration agreement for Egyptian workers, Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly announced on Wednesday. Madbouly proposed expanding cooperation between the Port of Alexandria and the Port of Koper to include Egypt’s Ain Sokhna and Damietta ports. This integration seeks to boost Egyptian exports to the European Union and aid Slovenia’s access to African markets.
The discussions occurred during a meeting with Slovenian President Nataša Pirc Musar in Cairo, coinciding with an economic event featuring a 25-company Slovenian trade delegation. Madbouly stated Egypt's intention to formalise a labour migration agreement to supply workers for sectors Slovenia prioritises. He also outlined Egypt’s energy infrastructure plans, including an electricity interconnection with Greece and linking Cypriot gas fields to Egyptian facilities.
President Pirc Musar identified the automotive industry as a key area for expansion, with Egypt prioritising localised electric vehicle production. Cooperation opportunities were also noted in tourism and sciences like artificial intelligence. Madbouly proposed sending Egyptian students to Slovenian institutions, citing existing ties between Cairo University and the University of Ljubljana.
Why it mattersEgyptian workers could find employment in Slovenia, and Egyptian exports may gain easier access to the EU market.