Egypt: heavy burden from hosting 10 Million refugees, including Libyans, strains national economy

Ambassador Wael Hamed, Assistant Egyptian Foreign Minister for European Affairs, has affirmed that his country shoulders immense economic and social burdens as a result of hosting approximately 10 million refugees and migrants. These individuals, hailing from various nationalities including Libyans, Sudanese, and Syrians, have sought refuge in Egypt following the outbreak of conflicts in their homelands. These newcomers receive essential services on par with Egyptian citizens, placing enormous pressure on the Egyptian economy.
Ambassador Hamed made his remarks during a meeting with a delegation from the European Parliament’s Committee on Relations with the Mashreq Countries, led by French MP Laurent Castello. The delegation is visiting Egypt from May 24 to 28 to participate in the 14th Parliamentary Meeting between Egypt and the European Union.
Hamed clarified that the escalating regional crises in neighbouring countries, including the situations in Libya, Gaza, and Sudan, which have recently witnessed critical developments, further exacerbate these pressures on Egypt.
For their part, members of the European delegation commended Egypt as a fundamental partner for the European Union. They also praised Egypt’s pivotal role as a pillar of stability in a region fraught with severe crises, such as Gaza, Libya, Sudan, and Syria, in addition to its diligent efforts in combating terrorism.