Cairo: Egypt and Tunisia have announced a strategic plan to double their annual trade volume, currently below $500 million, over the next two years. This announcement was made by Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly during a joint press conference with Tunisian Prime Minister Sarra Zaafrani. The press conference followed the 18th session of the Egypt-Tunisia High Joint Committee held in Cairo.

According to State Information Service Egypt, Prime Minister Madbouly highlighted the recognition by both countries of the currently low trade levels despite the vast economic potential. To address this, Egypt and Tunisia aim to enhance mutual investments and establish joint partnerships to target African markets. The strategy involves leveraging Tunisia's strategic presence in West Africa and Egypt's influence in East and Central Africa.

Madbouly also mentioned that the discussions between the two nations covered various areas of cooperation, including health, youth, economic development, and investment. Several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed to solidify these commitments. Both countries reaffirmed their support for a two-state solution in Palestine and stressed the importance of achieving a political solution in Libya devoid of foreign interference.

The talks were preceded by a meeting with President Abdel Fattah El Sisi, who expressed Egypt's unwavering support for Tunisia's developmental endeavors.