In the preparation of the Free Trade Agreement, the crisis is an opportunity for Serbia and Egypt

Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt in Serbia, His Excellency Basel Salah has only been in Belgrade for a year, and he has already traveled all over Serbia, which, as he points out, irresistibly reminds him of Switzerland due to its natural beauty. Even before entering the diplomatic post, he was very familiar with the culture and history of our people, which he describes as “very famous”.

In 2023, which marks the 115th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our two countries, he is launching important initiatives to strengthen cooperation between Egypt and Serbia. About the plans and activities ahead of this jubilee in an interview for the balkantravel.rs portal with Mr. Salah We are talking in the embassy building in Belgrade’s Senjak, with a photo shoot on the balcony where one of the meetings was held several decades ago by the presidents of Egypt and SFRY, Gamala Abdela Nasser and Josip Broz Tito.

Egypt and Serbia have excellent relations, and yet there is great room for improvement of bilateral cooperation in numerous areas. During the time of Presidents Nasser and Tito, the two countries played a major role in the establishment of the Non-Aligned Movement and cooperated together for the benefit of the entire independent and free world, His Excellency Mr. Salah adds:

Egypt and Serbia maintain old diplomatic relations, established in 1908. These exceptional relations are based on strong ties in recent history, rooted in distinctive and identical views and goals towards the future of our countries and peoples. The competent ministries of Egypt and Serbia look forward to marking the 115th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries by organizing a series of official visits and cultural events in both countries within the framework of the Week of Egyptian Culture in Serbia and the Week of Serbian Culture in Egypt.

Where do you see the greatest potential in cooperation between the two countries?

Cooperation between Egypt and Serbia has great potential in several areas: in the field of economy, trade in agricultural and industrial products, telecommunications, information technologies, and other areas. Our countries have started negotiations on a free trade agreement that will allow for an increase in the volume of trade between the countries. This FTA has the potential to achieve greater trade and investment and economic cooperation between both countries. The current international situation represents an opportunity for both countries to intensify their partnership in order to overcome the consequences of the current crisis, as well as to diversify the sources of their imports.

 What are you most proud of in the mandate so far, when it comes to the rapprochement of our two countries?

I am extremely proud of my current efforts to maximally improve the bilateral relations of Egypt in Serbia, in order to open new horizons of cooperation. In this regard, I would like to refer to the recent visit of His Excellency the President of Egypt, Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, who was here from July 19 to 22, 2022, as an indication of the fostering of friendly ties and the enthusiasm of both countries to give a strong boost bilateral relations in all spheres. This visit was not only historic, as it was the first visit of an Egyptian leader to Serbia after more than 35 years, but it is also essential for laying a solid foundation for many institutions on both sides to build and maintain a successful strategic partnership. This is clearly stated in the Joint Declaration on the strategic partnership of the two countries, which was signed by the two presidents.

What other forms of cooperation are in the plan when it comes to our two countries?

In addition to the signed agreement on cooperation between the City of Jagodina and the Egyptian city of Mars Alam in the Red Sea region, a proposal for the establishment of cooperation between Jagodina and other cities in the South Sinai area is also underway. Egypt and Serbia believe that the relations between the cities of both countries are important for the development of overall cooperation. A number of cooperation agreements were also signed between: Alexandria and Novi Sad, Sharm El-Sheikh and Nis, Aswan and Uzice, and three more proposals are currently being negotiated between the cities on both sides.

According to the data of the National Association of Travel Agencies, Egypt is among the four most popular destinations for Serbian tourists, right after Montenegro, Greece and Turkey, and the number of tourists on an annual basis is between 30,000 and 50,000. What is the increase in tourists and can you announce any news for the summer tourist season?

The number of Serbian tourists in Egypt has seen a noticeable increase in the last 5 years. That number has doubled multiple times since 2017 to reach several tens of thousands in 2021 and 2022. Egypt is introducing long-stay accommodation this year. Every tourist can get special offers with benefits for a month’s stay with full board in one of the resorts. A long stay offers tourists the opportunity to visit other cities and experience different types of tourism compared to regular tour packages that last only 7 to 10 days.

 What made Egypt stand out as one of the most desirable tourist destinations, considering the great expansion of tourism in previous years?

The tourism industry remains one of the main sources of national income for a tourist country like Egypt, and as a result, the Egyptian authorities always pay great attention to the development of this sector. Historical sites, a beneficial climate throughout the year and the geographical location of the country, make Egypt the first destination that most travelers and adventurers plan. Egypt is ready to receive them throughout the year.

Our country combines numerous types of tourism that will satisfy all travelers’ requirements. The most common type of tourism in Egypt is, of course, cultural, that is, historical tourism, which is related to visiting ancient monumental destinations and observing the timeless treasures of ancestors.

 Hurghada is one of the favorite vacation destinations of Serbian citizens, what makes it so special?

Hurghada is considered one of the best holiday destinations in Egypt in both summer and winter. It has a variety of resorts that suit all tastes and expectations of tourists and has different categories of accommodation ranging from 3 to 5 stars. This resort offers a unique experience to tourists including swimming, surfing, diving, water activities, sea cruises and more.

You say that you have visited all of Serbia, which places do you like the most here?

I visited Zlatibor, it is an extremely beautiful mountain. Serbia has enchanting plains, magnificent meadows, dense forests and sunny hills. It is full of opportunities for enjoyment – excursions, winter sports, and offers a rich cultural and tourist experience.

I was in Tara National Park in Western Serbia and heard many legends rooted in Serbian history there. The national park has everything from magnificent viewpoints to hidden coves rich in flora and fauna, fairy-tale lakes and numerous natural wonders.

Is there a plan to promote Serbia and its tourist offers in Egypt?

The Egyptian market represents an opportunity for Serbia. In this regard, the Government of Serbia made a decision to temporarily ease the procedures for issuing visas for Egyptian citizens for tourism in the period July-September 2022. Easier obtaining of visas for citizens of Egypt, as well as direct flights between Belgrade and Cairo, which will start on May 15, 2023, will contribute to the growth of tourism in Serbia.

Given that you are now our fellow citizen, what impression did you get about the people of Belgrade?

My family and I are really enjoying Serbia. Everyone is very warm, generous and helpful. People always try to help you with whatever you need. We feel that we have never left home, because we enjoy the hospitality of the Serbian people and their kindness and friendship. My little son Youssef, who is seven years old, told me that he would like to stay in Serbia for 300 years.

What do you like the most here?

Safety, above all, is what marks the nature of the city of Belgrade. I always feel safe and secure when I move or walk in the streets of Belgrade. I am very fond of nature and greenery, historical sites such as forts, monasteries, lakes, nature reserves, ski resorts and much more. Serbia is a hospitable country and the Serbian people are very friendly. Indeed, this is an unforgettable experience.