The Embassy of Egypt in Pretoria commemorated 73 years since the Egyptian Revolution of 23 July 1952.
His Excellency Mr Ahmad Sharief, Egyptian Ambassador to South Africa, addressed a large and diverse audience. He reflected on the historical and symbolic significance of the revolution, describing it as a major turning point in Egypt’s journey towards national liberation and a source of inspiration for movements across the African continent.
Addressing the audience in isiZulu during part of his speech, Ambassador Sharief highlighted the deep and enduring strategic partnership between Egypt and South Africa. Despite being located at opposite ends of the continent, the two countries share a proud history rooted in the principles of liberation, human dignity, and the fight against injustice.
“As we look to the future, Egypt and South Africa today stand shoulder to shoulder in a new struggle for economic liberation, sustainable development, and continental integration,” said Ambassador Sharief.
Egypt and South Africa are committed to building a strategic partnership that advances the aspirations of both nations, the African continent, and the Global South. High-level engagements between the two countries have intensified. The Joint Committee was revived and convened twice in 2022, with preparations currently underway for its eleventh session in 2026.
“We aim to accelerate the African Continental Free Trade Area, complete the Cairo to Cape Town highway, and deepen cooperation under the BRICS framework. We are deeply grateful to South Africa for supporting Egypt’s accession to BRICS and for inviting Egypt to this year’s G20 deliberations, ensuring Africa’s voice is heard,” added Ambassador Sharief.
Deputy Minister of Public Service and Administration of South Africa, Ms Pinky Kekana, delivered an address on behalf of the Government and people of South Africa.
“Our two countries acknowledge the importance of translating our strong political ties into concrete trade and investment partnerships,” said Ms Kekana, reflecting on the long-standing relationship between South Africa and Egypt.
She went on to emphasise the commitment to expanding cooperation in several key sectors. These include defence, security, law enforcement, energy, mining, petrochemicals, infrastructure, industrial development, pharmaceuticals, information and communication technology, science and research, and agriculture. This follows the 10th Joint Commission for Cooperation, held in Pretoria at Ministerial level in April 2024.
This year also marks the 31st anniversary of the resumption of diplomatic relations between Egypt and South Africa, which were re-established in 1994 following the end of apartheid.
In closing, Ambassador Sharief remarked that the two nations “are brought together by one spirit. The spirit of liberation, dignity, and Ubuntu.”
by Marion Kate
