Egypt's Rania Al-Mashat sworn in as ESCWA Executive Secretary
via Egypt Today2 min read
Rania Al-Mashat, Egypt's former minister of international cooperation, has formally assumed her role as Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of the UN Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia ESCWA. She took the oath on Saturday before UN Secretary-General Ant贸nio Guterres at the UN headquarters. Al-Mashat reaffirmed her commitment to serving the Arab region, acknowledging the significant political, security, and development challenges it faces. She stated her intention to lead ESCWA from within the region, focusing on human dignity and youth opportunities. Al-Mashat expressed gratitude to the UN chief and ESCWA member states for their confidence. Her background includes over two decades of international experience in central banking, monetary policy, financial systems, international cooperation, sustainable development, and climate finance. She previously served as Minister of Tourism, Minister of International Cooperation, and Minister of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation in Egypt. Before joining the cabinet, she worked at the International Monetary Fund and the Central Bank of Egypt.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Egypt Today.
Must ReadForeign ministers from Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and T眉rkiye, alongside the US President鈥檚 Senior Advisor for Arab and African Affairs, convened in Cairo on June 20, 2026, to discuss various regional issues. The participants included Egypt鈥檚 Badr Abdelatty, Saudi Arabia鈥檚 Prince Faisal bin Farhan, T眉rkiye鈥檚 Hakan Fidan, and US adviser Massad Boulos. Key topics included the Iran deal, developments in Africa such as Libya, and the Palestinian cause. The talks emphasized a recent memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran, highlighting its role in reducing tensions and enhancing regional security. Regarding Libya, officials stressed the importance of preserving unity and sovereignty, advancing the political process, and unifying state institutions. Discussions also covered the Gaza Strip and broader African affairs, aiming to strengthen coordination for continental security and stability.
Must ReadRania Al-Mashat officially took her oath of office on June 19, 2026, before United Nations Secretary-General Ant贸nio Guterres, assuming the roles of United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia ESCWA. Al-Mashat expressed gratitude for the confidence placed in her, noting the pivotal moment as the UN system undergoes reforms to address current demands and global challenges. Her vision for UNESCWA includes strengthening its role in supporting national policies and development strategies, expanding regional cooperation, and identifying common interests among member states. Key priorities include developing a regional narrative based on mutual benefit and knowledge exchange, expanding cooperation and integration among UNESCWA's 21 Member States, and reinforcing the motto "Shared Prosperity, Dignified Life" by ensuring policies yield tangible benefits for young people, women, and communities. In her new capacity, Al-Mashat will lead efforts to advance inclusive development, strengthen regional integration, and promote economic and digital transformation agendas within the Member States.
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