Country Director of Plug and Play Karima El-Hakim described artificial intelligence (AI) as a strategic tool for achieving digital inclusion and empowering Egyptian entrepreneurs to overcome language barriers and enter global investment and competition landscapes.

She highlighted the company’s active presence in Cairo and Upper Egypt, operating through a strategic partnership with Egypt’s Ministry of Communications and Information Technology.

Hakim noted that AI is no longer a luxury, but a real enabler for expanding sectors like fintech and agritech, commending Egypt's strong digital infrastructure led by the government through national initiatives that support provinces and foster innovative ideas.

She praised the success of startups in Aswan, Minya, Beni Suef, and Mansoura, which have developed globally scalable AI-powered products thanks to this supportive ecosystem.

She also underscored France’s global leadership in AI, noting the strong potential for building formal cooperation bridges between the two nations, reaffirming Plug and Play’s readiness to invest in promising Egyptian startups and support their international expansion.

Egypt can serve as a key gateway for major French companies looking to access African markets, leveraging Egypt’s advanced digital infrastructure and strategic geographical position, Hakim said.

In a key intervention during the forum, President Abdel Fattah El Sisi stressed the importance of the Egyptian-French partnership across all sectors.

"We count on France’s technological progress to help localize industries in Egypt, reducing pressure on foreign currency and supporting the Egyptian economy, particularly in agriculture, tourism, healthcare, and beyond," Sisi said.

He welcomed Macron’s visit to Egypt, expressing his appreciation for the efforts of French companies participating in the forum, which bring valuable expertise and capabilities.

"We’ve invested heavily in infrastructure, energy, ports, roads, legislative frameworks, and economic reform programs to facilitate the work of French businesses. Egypt is a large market in the Arab world and Africa, and a gateway for French products," Sisi said.

He pointed out that 60% of the Egyptian population is under 40, presenting a major opportunity for economic growth and innovation.

For his part, French President Emmanuel Macron affirmed that investing in Egypt is investing in a stable country with enormous growth potential.

He added that France stands firmly with Egypt as a trusted partner, emphasizing the potential for both countries to achieve shared prosperity.

"We trust Egypt. France was the first European investor outside the hydrocarbons sector, investing over €7 billion, and creating more than 50,000 direct jobs through French-led projects, Macron said."

He also reaffirmed the commitment of the French Development Agency (AFD) to key sectors in Egypt, including health, water, energy, and education. (MENA)

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