Administrator Mark Green met today in Egypt with USAID partners from civil society, entrepreneurs, representatives from religious communities, and Government of Egypt leaders.

First, Administrator Green met with USAID implementing partners representing civil society to discuss their perspectives on challenges and opportunities for non-governmental organizations (NGO) in Egypt and about the country’s ongoing process to revise the NGO law.

Administrator Green met with young entrepreneurs at Flat6Labs to learn how USAID and the Egyptian-American Enterprise Fund are accelerating investment in early-stage, high-growth-potential companies to develop Egypt’s private sector.

Administrator Green visited Aslam al-Silahdar Mosque and saw firsthand how USAID, alongside the Agha Khan foundation, preserves important historic and religious cultural sites in Egypt to help foster economic growth and employment.  Administrator Green also visited the Adly Street Synagogue where he learned more about the work of the NGO Drop of Milk and its efforts to promote interfaith understanding and preservation of cultural heritage in Egypt.

Administrator Green met with Dr. Sahar Nasr, Minister of Investment and International Cooperation, to discuss collaboration on topics, such as women economic empowerment, youth participation, private sector development, interfaith and community engagement, and the important role of NGOs in Egypt.

Finally, Administrator Green met with Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly to affirm 40 years of cooperation between USAID and Egypt.  The Administrator acknowledged the Government of Egypt’s leadership under President el-Sisi in promoting religious pluralism. He also emphasized the important role of civil society in Egypt’s development journey and discussed ways to advance programs of mutual interest.