
Egypt’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Egyptians Abroad, Badr Abdelatty, engaged in telephone conversations with Mahmoud Ali Youssef, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, and other African foreign ministers from Burundi, Angola, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. These discussions, part of ongoing consultations, focused on enhancing African coordination to establish peace, security, and stability, and to advance sustainable development across the continent. Officials also exchanged views on regional and continental issues, including the health situation in Africa and collective response strategies. Minister Abdelatty reiterated Egypt’s readiness to share its capabilities, expertise, and technical support in health. The talks also covered new dates and preparations for the 8th African Union Coordination Summit and the 49th Ordinary Session of the African Union Executive Council, along with other AU events Egypt is set to host this year, aiming to strengthen coordination and advance continental economic integration.
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Egypt's Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Ahmed Rostom, announced that the health and education sectors are exempt from the government's austerity measures for the fiscal year 2026/2027. This decision aims to ensure the continuous provision of essential services. Rostom, speaking during a Senate plenary session, clarified that the austerity plan does not suspend investment allocations but rather postpones certain energy-intensive projects to secure energy supplies amidst global pressures. He emphasized the government's commitment to transparency and cooperation with the Senate to improve the public investment plan and direct resources towards development priorities. The minister also highlighted the plan's focus on attracting private sector investment, describing it as a key development partner, and noted increased investment allocations for projects in free zones and investment zones to support economic growth and job creation.
Must ReadEgypt has strongly condemned Israeli practices that undermine the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East UNRWA in the Gaza Strip. Egyptian Minister of Foreign Affairs Badr Abdelatty stated that Israel continues to impose severe restrictions on the access of humanitarian aid for besieged Palestinians. Abdelatty made these remarks during a Cairo meeting with UNRWA Acting Commissioner-General Christian Saunders, emphasizing UNRWA's indispensable and irreplaceable role in serving the Palestinian people. Egypt also reaffirmed its rejection of the displacement of Palestinians from their homeland. Saunders briefed Abdelatty on UNRWA's future operations and challenges across its five areas of operation, which include Lebanon, Syria, the Gaza Strip, the West Bank, and Jordan. UNRWA's latest situational update on the Gaza Strip reported continued Israeli strikes near its facilities, critical shortages of engine oil and spare parts, and the imminent risk of total failure for water systems.

The Giza Zoo is expected to officially reopen in the last quarter of 2026, following a comprehensive development and modernization project. The renovation aimed to transform the zoo into a world-class entertainment and environmental center, while preserving its historical and archaeological value. Renamed "Genenet el-Hayawanat," the zoo has moved away from traditional cages, adopting open environments that mimic animals' natural habitats. These upgrades adhere to international standards set by the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums WAZA, ensuring a healthy environment for wildlife and an interactive visitor experience. The project also established educational and research facilities to promote environmental awareness. The reopening is anticipated to re-establish the zoo's position as a leading tourist and cultural destination in the Arab region and Africa.