The Embassy of Egypt in Singapore commemorated Egypt’s 74th National Day and the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations with Singapore, highlighting six decades of partnership through diplomacy, business, culture, and the launch of a special IN Diplomacy publication.

The Embassy of the Arab Republic of Egypt in Singapore hosted a diplomatic reception on 23 July 2026 to commemorate Egypt’s 74th National Day and the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Egypt and Singapore. Held at Egypt House, the reception brought together government representatives, members of the diplomatic corps, business leaders, and members of the Egyptian community to reaffirm the enduring partnership between the two countries and their shared commitment to expanding bilateral cooperation.

Hosted by H.E. Ahmed Mostafa, Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt to Singapore, and his spouse Mrs Salwa Elhamamsy, the reception welcomed approximately 150 guests, including representatives from the Singapore Presidency, Singapore Minister for Transport Jeffrey Siow, Members of Parliament, ambassadors accredited to Singapore, senior executives from major Singaporean companies operating in Egypt, representatives of economic institutions, and members of the Egyptian community.

Source: IN Diplomacy Reporter.

The celebration marked two significant milestones: Egypt’s National Day, commemorating the July 1952 Revolution, and the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Egypt and Singapore. The evening also featured the launch of a special IN Diplomacy commemorative publication on Egypt, produced in collaboration with the Embassy of Egypt and IN Diplomacy, alongside an exhibition of Egyptian paintings and presentations showcasing Egypt’s cultural heritage, tourism destinations, and national development projects.

Source: Embassy of the Arab Republic of Egypt in Singapore

Speaking at the reception, Ambassador Ahmed Mostafa reflected on the significance of Egypt’s National Day and highlighted the steady growth of Egypt-Singapore relations over the past six decades across diplomacy, trade, investment, and development. Representing the Singapore Government, Minister for Transport Jeffrey Siow reaffirmed Singapore’s commitment to strengthening cooperation and noted ongoing efforts to expand economic collaboration between the two countries.

A key highlight of the evening was the official launch of the IN Diplomacy Special Edition on Egypt, published by IN Diplomacy in collaboration with the Embassy of Egypt. The publication’s cover featured an original artwork created by Mrs Salwa Elhamamsy, adding a distinctive artistic element to the commemorative edition.

The special publication documented the evolution of Egypt-Singapore relations over the past six decades through a comprehensive timeline of bilateral milestones, including high-level exchanges and state visits that have strengthened diplomatic engagement between the two countries. It also featured exclusive interviews with H.E. Ahmed Mostafa, Ambassador of Egypt to Singapore, and H.E. Dominic Goh, Singapore’s Ambassador to Egypt, offering perspectives on the expanding partnership and future opportunities for cooperation.

The edition further highlighted Egypt’s economic transformation through an interview with Mr Waleid Gamal El-Dien, Chairman of the Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCZONE), which outlined the zone’s strategic role in attracting international investment and facilitating global trade. In addition, the publication examined the contributions of Singaporean companies with operations in Egypt, including Tolaram, Pacific International Lines (PIL), Olam, and Indorama, illustrating the growing commercial links between the two economies.

Beyond diplomacy and business, the publication also showcased the people-to-people ties that have developed between Egypt and Singapore over six decades, highlighting educational exchanges, cultural cooperation, tourism, and community engagement that have contributed to strengthening mutual understanding and friendship.

The reception concluded with guests viewing an exhibition of paintings representing Egypt’s landscapes and heritage, while documentary presentations showcased the country’s historical landmarks, contemporary development projects, and tourism destinations. Together with the launch of the commemorative publication, the programme reflected the multifaceted nature of Egypt-Singapore relations, spanning diplomacy, commerce, culture, and public engagement.

Source: IN Diplomacy Reporter.

The event brought together members of Singapore’s Coptic community to mark World Coptic Day and commemorate the entry of the Holy Family into Egypt.

The Egyptian Ambassador to Singapore, Mr Ahmed Mustafa, participated in a celebration organised by the Egyptian Church in Singapore to mark World Coptic Day and the anniversary of the entry of the Holy Family into Egypt. The occasion brought together members of the Coptic community and their families for a programme of cultural, religious and community activities.

World Coptic Day is observed annually on 1 June and has been celebrated by Egyptian churches in Egypt and abroad since 2019. The event in Singapore was held as a part of these commemorations and highlighted the historical and religious significance of the Holy Family’s journey in Egypt.

In his remarks, Ambassador Mustafa highlighted Egypt’s longstanding tradition of coexistence among different faiths and communities and encouraged visitors to explore the Holy Family Trail, which connects key religious and historical sites across the country.

Approximately 100 members of the Coptic community and their families, including participants from various nationalities, attended the celebration. The programme featured a charity bazaar, children’s activities and the presentation of traditional Egyptian food. The event concluded with community celebrations reflecting the cultural heritage and traditions associated with World Coptic Day.

Source: Embassy of the Arab Republic of Egypt in Singapore

TALKS FOCUS ON LEVERAGING HSBC’S INTERNATIONAL NETWORK TO ATTRACT EXPORT-ORIENTED INVESTMENT

On 3 March 2026 in Cairo, Eng. Mohamed El-Gawsaky, Chief Executive Officer of the General Authority for Investment and Free Zones (GAFI), met with Todd Wilcox, Chief Executive Officer of HSBC Egypt, and Nadim Habib, Head of Institutional Banking at HSBC, to explore avenues for promoting investment in Egypt abroad.

The discussions were held in implementation of the directives of Dr Mohamed Farid Saleh, Minister of Investment and Foreign Trade, aimed at strengthening the role of the private sector locally and internationally in advancing Egypt’s investment landscape.

Both sides agreed on the importance of presenting HSBC’s global client base with updates on legislative and procedural reforms within Egypt’s investment environment. HSBC’s international network of 42 million customers across 62 countries and territories was highlighted as a strategic platform, particularly as HSBC Egypt sharpens its focus on global trade and corporate banking in alignment with national plans to increase export-oriented investments.

The meeting also addressed the development of a joint promotional roadmap, including defined targets and timelines, to enhance the global perception of Egypt’s economic reform programme.

Eng. El-Gawsaky noted that Egypt’s economy has demonstrated resilience despite global and regional challenges, supported by sectoral diversification and infrastructure investments exceeding USD 550 billion over the past decade. He also referred to trade agreements enabling Egyptian goods and services to access markets in 70 countries, representing 3.6 billion consumers and approximately 60 per cent of global GDP.

Mr Wilcox stated that major international investors — particularly from China, India, the United Kingdom and the United States — have shown increasing interest in developments within the Egyptian economy. He added that improvements in infrastructure, including road networks and ports, have strengthened Egypt’s position as a regional hub within continental and global value chains.

Dr Dalia El-Hawary, Deputy CEO of GAFI, indicated that the Egyptian government, in cooperation with the World Bank, has identified 13 priority sectors under the National Strategy for Foreign Direct Investment in Egypt (2025–2030). She encouraged HSBC to introduce its clients to these sectors, which benefit from competitive advantages and supportive policies.

Ms Menna Moenes, Chinese Investment Promotion Representative at GAFI, added that Egypt is targeting Chinese investments in renewable energy and the automotive sector. Incentives include the establishment of a dedicated unit for Chinese investors within GAFI and the facilitation of transactions in Chinese yuan for financial and investment activities in Egypt.

Source : Invest In Egypt

Egypt advances investment climate as Guardian Glass plans expansion and energy-efficient technology launch

The Chief Executive Officer of the General Authority for Investment and Free Zones (GAFI), Eng. Mohamed El-Gawsky, met with a delegation from Guardian Glass to discuss the company’s expansion plans in Egypt and the launch of new glass-coating technology. The meeting aligned with the directives of the Ministry of Investment and Foreign Trade of Egypt (MIFT) to foster a business environment conducive to domestic and foreign investment.

The engagement was held in line with directives from Minister of Investment and Foreign Trade Mohamed Farid Saleh to enhance dialogue with the business community, accelerate service delivery, and streamline procedures to strengthen confidence in Egypt’s investment climate. The meeting was attended by Mr. Jean Ries, Director of Government and Public Affairs for Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Asia-Pacific, and Mr. Saeed Bin Bella, Director of Government Affairs Egypt.

During the discussions, Guardian Glass outlined its plans to expand glass-coating production capacity at Guardian Glass Egypt and to manufacture Low-E glass, which reduces electricity consumption within buildings by up to 40 percent while maintaining natural daylight and thermal insulation. The company indicated that the new technology will be launched in Egypt and Africa for the first time by June, with exports targeting markets in Africa, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe.

Mr. Jean Ries noted that Egypt’s infrastructure development and improvements in the investment environment have supported the company’s expansion strategy. He highlighted the efficiency of the Egyptian workforce and the country’s trade linkages, particularly its membership in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which facilitates access to regional markets.

Eng. Mohamed El-Gawsky stated that Guardian Glass could benefit from MIFT’s plan to establish logistics zones in Morocco, Ivory Coast, Tanzania, Congo, Kenya, and South Africa, aimed at supporting Egyptian exports to African markets. He added that export growth to Africa is expected to record double-digit increases in the coming years.

The GAFI CEO also reviewed state efforts to integrate Egyptian industries into global value-added chains, including measures to reduce customs clearance time from approximately 15.8 days to 5.8 days, resulting in estimated shipping cost reductions of USD 1.5 billion for Egyptian businesses. He further referenced government investments amounting to USD 550 billion in infrastructure development, including roads and ports, to support investment activity.

The meeting concluded with both sides expressing readiness to continue cooperation in support of industrial expansion, export growth, and sustainable investment in Egypt.

Source: Invest Egypt

Egypt’s investment authority and Singapore’s ambassador discussed opportunities to expand bilateral investment cooperation, with a focus on value-added sectors and long-term economic partnership

Within the framework of Egypt’s efforts to strengthen international economic cooperation and attract foreign direct investment, Eng. Mohamed El-Gawsaky, Chief Executive Officer of the General Authority for Investment and Free Zones (GAFI), met Mr Dominic Goh, Ambassador of the Republic of Singapore to Cairo. The meeting explored ways to enhance investment cooperation and expand partnership opportunities between the two countries.

During the discussions, El-Gawsaky highlighted Singapore’s position as one of the largest Asian investors in Egypt, with significant investments concentrated in the food industries. He also pointed to Singapore’s experience in logistics, port management, smart infrastructure, renewable energy and digital transformation, noting: “We aim to attract value-added Singaporean investments in strategic sectors.” He added that GAFI is focused on investments that support development objectives while facilitating the transfer of expertise and technology to the Egyptian market.

The meeting examined potential cooperation across logistics services, food security, clean energy, urban development and digital infrastructure projects. Both sides noted that recent high-level engagement, including an official visit to Singapore and a business forum organised with GAFI, had contributed to increased interest among Singaporean companies, supported by the signing of several memoranda of understanding in different sectors.

El-Gawsaky also outlined measures taken by the Egyptian government to improve the investment climate, including economic reforms and monetary policies aimed at financial stability and inflation control, as well as simplified procedures and enhanced transparency. He said these steps had supported higher investment rates and increased tax revenues without raising tax levels.

For his part, Ambassador Goh said: “The Egyptian market offers promising opportunities and a well-developed investment environment.” He expressed appreciation for recent progress and confirmed the interest of Singaporean companies in deepening engagement with GAFI. Both sides agreed on priority areas for future cooperation, including green and renewable energy, logistics and exports, collaboration with sovereign funds, and potential participation by Singaporean firms in airport management and development projects, underscoring the importance of continued institutional coordination.

Source: General Authority for Investment and Free Zones

Egypt’s Ambassador to Singapore reflected on the country’s 6,000-year civilisational continuity, cultural diversity, and global influence, underscoring Egypt’s role as a crossroads of cultures and a lasting source of soft power

Speaking on the multifaceted nature of Egyptian culture and civilisation, His Excellency Ahmed Mostafa, Ambassador of Egypt to Singapore, described Egypt’s history not as a sequence of isolated eras, but as “a continuous, 6,000-year-old river of culture that has both irrigated the world with knowledge and absorbed the tides of foreign influence.” This perspective frames Egypt as a living civilisation, one shaped by interaction, adaptation and resilience rather than a static relic of the past.

Ambassador Mostafa emphasised that Egypt is often referred to as the “gift of the Nile,” but argued that it is more accurately defined as a cultural crossroads. In his address, he explained that studying Egypt does not mean examining a single frozen timeline, but rather uncovering layers of a palimpsest, where earlier cultural narratives remain visible beneath newer ones. Understanding this diversity, he said, is essential for appreciating how civilisations survive, adapt, and influence the world over time.

Reflecting on continuity and change, the Ambassador pointed out that Egypt offers a unique case study of civilisational persistence. Despite transformations in language, from Ancient Egyptian to Coptic, Greek, and Arabic, and in belief systems, from polytheism to Christianity and Islam, he noted that a distinct cultural “DNA” has endured. He observed that modern Egyptian folk traditions and everyday expressions can still be traced back to Pharaonic times, illustrating how societies absorb external influences while maintaining a coherent identity.

Geography, Ambassador Mostafa noted, has been central to Egypt’s historical role as a bridge between Africa, Asia, and Europe. He recalled that during the Greco-Roman era, Alexandria served as the intellectual capital of the ancient world, where Hellenistic philosophy merged with Egyptian mysticism, mathematics, and astronomy. Later, during the Islamic Golden Age, Cairo emerged as a global centre of trade and scholarship, synthesising Persian, Arab, and Mediterranean knowledge. These periods, he said, demonstrate that history should be viewed as a global web of interaction rather than isolated civilisational paths.

Religious pluralism also featured prominently in the Ambassador’s remarks. He highlighted Egypt’s long record of religious evolution, noting that the country is home to some of the oldest Christian monastic traditions within Coptic Christianity, as well as influential Islamic institutions such as Al-Azhar. Studying how these communities have coexisted and shared artistic and social spaces, he said, offers important lessons for contemporary interfaith dialogue and social cohesion. In this context, he recalled the words of Pope Shenouda III: “Egypt is not a country we live in, but a country that lives within us.”

Beyond its ancient monuments, Ambassador Mostafa drew attention to the diversity of Egypt’s people. He pointed to communities such as the Nubians in the south, the Bedouins of Sinai, and the Siwi people of the Western Desert, noting that focusing solely on the Pharaonic legacy risks overlooking the country’s rich social and cultural complexity. This diversity, he explained, holds scientific value for fields such as anthropology, linguistics, and the study of human migration.

Turning to Egypt’s ancient foundations, the Ambassador described how civilisation developed along a fertile strip of land bordered by inhospitable desert, fostering early cultural cohesion. He highlighted �Ѳ�’a��, the concept of truth, balance, and cosmic order, as the central philosophy shaping Egyptian society for thousands of years. He also noted Egypt’s early scientific contributions, including the 365-day solar calendar, advances in medicine, and the applied geometry that enabled large-scale irrigation and monumental construction.

Ambassador Mostafa further traced Egypt’s cultural synthesis through the Greco-Roman and Islamic periods. He noted that Greek rulers adopted Egyptian traditions rather than dismantling them, creating hybrid religious and political structures, while the spread of Christianity gave rise to Coptic culture and monasticism. Following the Arab conquest, Egypt retained its central position in the Islamic world, with Cairo flourishing as a centre of scholarship, architecture, and global trade connecting the Silk Road to the Mediterranean.

In addressing modern Egypt, the Ambassador described the country as Om El Donya, the “Mother of the World”, and characterised contemporary Egyptian culture as a mosaic shaped by history, language, and global engagement. He observed that in the 20th century, Egypt became a cultural leader of the Arab world through cinema and music, with figures such as Umm Kulthum and a thriving film industry shaping regional identity. And, he added, Egyptians often navigate a “triple identity”: Pharaonic in heritage, Arab in language and politics, and Mediterranean or global in outlook.

Concluding his remarks, Ambassador Mostafa reflected on Egypt’s enduring soft power. From ancient art and architecture that influenced classical Greek and Roman styles, to modern media, music, sports, and heritage diplomacy, Egypt has long exercised influence through attraction rather than coercion. He noted that contemporary symbols,from global sporting icons to major cultural projects such as the Grand Egyptian Museum, continue to project Egypt’s identity internationally, reinforcing its role as a living civilisation that remains deeply connected to the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern worlds.

As part of the global celebrations marking the opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum, the Egyptian Embassy in Singapore hosted a lecture and reception highlighting Egypt’s cultural legacy and the museum’s monumental significance

Singapore, 4 November 2025 — The Embassy of the Arab Republic of Egypt in Singapore organised a lecture and reception to introduce the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), one of the world’s most anticipated cultural landmarks. The event formed part of a global series of celebrations held by Egyptian embassies worldwide to commemorate the museum’s grand opening.

The evening began with a visual presentation that chronicled the museum’s more than twenty-year journey of construction, featuring exclusive documentary footage and insights into its architectural and curatorial achievements. The programme concluded with a reception attended by over 200 distinguished guests, including ambassadors, members of the diplomatic corps, representatives of cultural institutions, tourism companies, the Egyptian community, and local media.

His Excellency Ambassador Ahmed Mostafa, Egypt’s Ambassador to Singapore, delivered the keynote lecture. He underscored the historic and cultural importance of the Grand Egyptian Museum, describing it as an unparalleled institution dedicated to preserving and presenting Egypt’s ancient civilisation using the most advanced technologies available today.

Ambassador Mostafa also highlighted the museum’s global significance as a beacon of Egypt’s enduring leadership in heritage preservation. He noted that the museum not only celebrates Egypt’s rich history but also represents a universal legacy — a “treasure for all humanity” and a source of deep pride for Egyptians, the descendants of the ancient pharaohs.

The event drew strong interest from diplomats, academics, Egyptology enthusiasts, and tourism professionals in Singapore. Through this initiative, the Embassy reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment to cultural diplomacy and to strengthening understanding between nations through shared appreciation of history, art, and innovation.

Source: H.E. Ahmed Mostafa, Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt

The Embassy of the Arab Republic of Egypt in Singapore organised an event to introduce the Grand Egyptian Museum, attended by diplomats, cultural representatives, and members of the Egyptian community.

Singapore, 5 November 2025 – The Embassy of the Arab Republic of Egypt in Singapore organised a lecture and reception to celebrate the inauguration of the Grand Egyptian Museum, one of Egypt’s most significant cultural achievements. The event formed part of a series of international celebrations held by Egyptian embassies around the world to commemorate the opening of this long-awaited cultural landmark.

The event began with a presentation that traced the museum’s development journey spanning more than two decades. Guests were shown visual recordings detailing the museum’s construction, architectural innovations, and the integration of cutting-edge technology designed to preserve and showcase Egypt’s ancient treasures. More than 200 guests attended the event, including ambassadors, members of the diplomatic corps, leaders of cultural institutions and museums, Egyptology enthusiasts, representatives from Singapore’s tourism sector, members of the Egyptian community, and local media. The lecture took place at one of Singapore’s prominent theatres.

Ambassador Ahmed Mostafa, Egypt’s Ambassador to Singapore, delivered the keynote address. He emphasised the cultural and historical importance of the Grand Egyptian Museum, describing it as a symbol of Egypt’s enduring contribution to world civilisation. Ambassador Mostafa highlighted the museum’s mission to preserve the legacy of ancient Egypt through modern technologies and innovative exhibition methods, ensuring that future generations continue to engage with Egypt’s rich heritage.

He also noted that the museum reflects Egypt’s leadership in global cultural preservation and its commitment to celebrating history as a shared human treasure. The Ambassador expressed pride in the project’s successful completion, calling it an achievement that unites admiration for the past with aspirations for the future.

In closing, the Embassy of Egypt extended its appreciation to the Egyptian community in Singapore and all attendees for their support and enthusiasm in promoting Egypt’s cultural heritage abroad. The event underscored the strong cultural diplomacy between Egypt and Singapore, fostering greater appreciation for art, history, and shared human heritage.

Source: Embassy of the Arab Republic of Egypt in Singapore

First official visit to the Middle East and North Africa highlights deep ties, economic cooperation, and shared commitment to peace, 19 to 22 September 2025.

SINGAPORE, 21 September 2025 – President Tharman Shanmugaratnam called on Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al Sisi, who also hosted a State Banquet. Both Presidents reaffirmed the warm and longstanding relations between Singapore and Egypt, in the lead-up to the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations in 2026.  Egypt was the first Arab country to recognise Singapore’s independence in 1965. Since then, bilateral relations have grown steadily. 

President Tharman and President Al Sisi welcomed the expansion of bilateral cooperation into new areas such as the health sector, agri-research, technical education, capacity building within government, and smart ports and the maritime sector. Both Presidents agreed that it was timely to explore the feasibility of a free trade agreement between Singapore and Egypt to take advantage of the two countries’ complementary strengths and their strategic locations.

President Tharman thanked President Al Sisi for Egypt’s facilitation of Singapore’s humanitarian assistance for Gaza since November 2023. He welcomed the collaboration between the health ministries, noting that Singapore was the first foreign country that Egypt had allowed to deploy doctors in Egyptian hospitals to provide specialist medical care for Palestinian civilians. 

President Tharman also welcomed closer people-to-people ties, exemplified by the generations of students pursuing higher education in Islamic studies at Al Azhar University. President Tharman thanked President Al Sisi for Egypt’s support in the continued cooperation between Al Azhar University and the newly established Singapore College of Islamic Studies. 

President Tharman extended an invitation for President Al Sisi to visit Singapore in 2026 to commemorate the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations.   

Following their meeting, the two Presidents held a joint press conference and witnessed the signing of several memoranda of understanding on cooperation in the areas of economy, maritime transport, health, agri-research, micro, small and medium enterprises and startup development, capacity building and social protection.

President Tharman also met Egypt Prime Minister Dr Mostafa Madbouly, who updated President Tharman on Egypt’s economic development plans and investment opportunities for Singapore companies. The two leaders also agreed that there was scope to step up bilateral economic cooperation and for both sides to work closely together to drive innovation in port, airport and water management. 

Source: MFA

Royal Thai Embassy welcomes over 100 guests in celebration of cultural exchange and friendship.

SINGAPORE, 6 SEPTEMBER 2025 – The Royal Thai Embassy in Singapore, led by H.E. Ureerat Chareontoh, Ambassador of ������, in partnership with the Embassy of Egypt, hosted the International Art Exhibition at the Embassy premises. The event gathered more than 100 guests, including diplomats, cultural figures, and art enthusiasts.

In her remarks, Ambassador Ureerat emphasised the power of art as a universal language that connects people and bridges cultures. She highlighted two collaborative artworks by renowned Thai artist Mr Thaweesak Srithongdee (Lolay) and Singaporean artist Toby Tan (Tobyato), first launched in September 2024 to mark the 60th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations between ������ and Singapore. These works symbolise the enduring friendship between the two nations and celebrate their shared Peranakan heritage through the expressive medium of street art.

The Ambassador also extended her appreciation to Madame Salwa Elhamamsy, spouse of the Ambassador of Egypt, for initiating the exhibition, which featured the creative works of artists from Japan, South Korea, Kazakhstan, Lithuania, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and Singapore. The diverse collection underscored the global reach of artistic expression and the role of cultural events in fostering international understanding.

The International Art Exhibition was warmly received by guests, reinforcing the importance of cultural diplomacy and artistic collaboration in strengthening ties among nations.

Source: Royal Thai Embassy, Singapore