The Arab Republic of Egypt celebrated its 72nd National Day on 23rd July 2024 at The House of Egypt. H.E. Mr Ahmed Elfadly welcomed guests to commemorate the anniversary of the 1952 revolution, led by the late President Mohamed Naguib. This revolution was a major catalyst in asserting Egypt’s Arab identity and enhancing its African identity in the 1950s, while leading a policy of non-alignment during the Cold War from the 1960s. In this context, Egypt was a driving force behind the Pan-Arab and Pan-African non-alignment movements, supporting liberation movements throughout the Arab world and across the African continent.
“The destructive effects of climate change are spreading across the globe. The resources dispersed and efforts consumed to trigger or sustain conflicts on the African continent and beyond could have created a global paradise of prosperity if spent on developing a truly global village,” said H.E. Mr Elfadly.
“Had we recognised that our power is in our unity and that our unity is in our diversity,” he added.
In this spirit, Egypt initiated the Aswan Forum for Sustainable Peace and Development, bringing together African leaders, policymakers, and intellectuals to provide African solutions for the continent’s urgent challenges. The first edition was held in 2019 during Egypt’s chairmanship of the African Union; the second took place in 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic. The third forum was held the following year amidst global concerns over developments in Ukraine and their impact on food, energy, and security. It was also the year Africa proudly hosted COP27 in Sharm El Sheikh, amplifying Africa’s voice on the global stage.
“A government of national unity was established earlier this month in South Africa, reminding us all that power is indeed in unity, and unity is indeed in diversity – thank you, South Africa,” said H.E. Mr Elfadly.
Egypt remains committed to tripling its exports to Africa by 2025, from approximately $5 billion to $15 billion. Egypt is also the largest export market for South African goods and services in North Africa. Egypt’s exports to South Africa increased by 4% over the past year, and the balance of trade with South Africa increased more than sevenfold (732%) in favour of Egypt.
H.E. Mr Ahmed Elfadly’s tour of duty as Ambassador to South Africa will end in a few weeks, after which he will travel back from Cape to Cairo. He warmly thanked South Africa for its hospitality, commenting on the current all-time high of bilateral relations. With around 10 million Egyptians living in South Africa, H.E. Mr Elfadly reminded guests of the importance of the Egyptian diaspora in South Africa.
Her Excellency Kalay Pillay, Deputy Director General for Legislative Development and Law Reform, congratulated Egypt on behalf of the government and people of South Africa.
“The past three decades of our bilateral relations have been enhanced in a manner that reflects the historical bonds of solidarity.”
Egypt’s contribution to knowledge, science, and the arts enjoys global acclaim. For many decades, Egypt has championed the ideals of anti-colonialism and freedom, as demonstrated by the vision and commitment of the great African leader and icon, Gamal Abdel Nasser. Along with the great founders of the Organisation of African Unity in 1963, he inspired many.
Raising a toast to the bonds of solidarity between the two countries, guests enjoyed lunch and admired the various Egyptian-themed photo scenes set up for the event.
by Marion Kate
