To mark the 65th anniversary of Egypt’s July Revolution, Việt Nam News presents an article written by Youssef K. Hanna, ambassador extraordinary and plenipotentiary of the Arab Republic of Egypt to Việt Nam.

On the 23rd of this month, the Egyptian people celebrated the 65th anniversary of the July Revolution, a great revolution that led to massive political, economic and social development in Egypt scene, paving the way for important steps toward building a modernised state.

On this occasion, we also recall the important historical role that Egypt has played during the 50’s and 60’s in supporting the liberation movements in Africa, Asia and Latin America. The Egyptian leader Gamal Abdel Nasser was among the many outstanding African and Asian leaders who participated in the Bandung conference in 1955, which adopted the famous ten principles that formed the foundation of the Non-Aligned Movement.

During the last few years, Egypt has succeeded in completing its “Political Road Map” and has embarked on a major economic reform programme, including the liberalisation of the exchange rate regime, fiscal consolidation measures and business environment reforms. The liberalisation of the exchange rate regime is a key step toward restoring the competitiveness of the economy and boosting private sector activity.

Growth is expected to pick up due to positive developments in the gas, manufacturing and real estate sectors, alongside recovery in the tourism sector. National projects in roads, ports, oil and gas, electric energy and agriculture are being carried out. Priority is given to the interests of the low-income segments of the society.

On the external level, Egypt is gaining more international confidence day after day through its active role in international forums. Within the United Nations and the African Union, Egypt is exerting efforts to highlight the necessity of combating terrorism through a comprehensive international strategy.

Beautiful antiquity: Aswan Philae Temple is one of the most picturesque in all of Egypt.— Photo courtesy of the Embassy of Egypt

Egypt has been known throughout its history as a destination for tourists and travellers since it was visited by the Greek historian “Herodotus” during antiquity.

The discovery of the Pharaonic antiquities has brought a special charm to Egypt in addition to its unique religious and cultural monuments. Egypt also enjoys a favourable geographical location and a moderate climate year-round. Its smooth, vast coastlines and beaches — as well as the unique treasures of coral reefs — provide Egypt with a competitive edge.

Besides cultural and archaeological tourism, many tourist attractions have come into existence and appealed to broader segments of visitors from across the world. These include recreational activities, beach tourism, religious tourism, therapeutic tourism, eco-tourism, sports tourism, safari tourism, yacht and marine tourism in addition to festivals, cultural events and conferences.

On this occasion, we also celebrate Egypt-Việt Nam historical relations. The two countries established diplomatic ties 54 years ago. Throughout the years, our bilateral relations have flourished on the basis of cooperation, friendship and mutual respect. The two countries exchange support in different regional and multilateral forums and maintain close coordination on issues of mutual concern.

In a few weeks, Hà Nội will host the 5th session of the Ministerial Joint Commission between Egypt and Việt Nam. I am confident that this important meeting will contribute to further developing our bilateral relations in all fields including trade and investment, small and medium enterprises, agriculture and fisheries, energy, communications and information technology, tourism, education and culture.

I would like to take this opportunity to express my best wishes for the success and prosperity of both the Vietnamese and the Egyptian people and for the further development of the time-honoured relationship between our two friendly countries. — VNS