CAIRO, Dec 18 (MENA) – Egypt has managed to enhance its presence in international organizations and realize several notable diplomatic accomplishments this year in light of the directives of President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Emigration, and Expatriate Affairs successfully garnered international support for Egypt’s election to several leadership positions and seats in international organizations.
On Thursday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that these achievements culminated in the historic election of Khaled al-Enany as Director-General of UNESCO, making him the first Egyptian, Arab, and second African to hold this prestigious position since the organization’s founding. He won with the largest number of votes in the history of competitive elections at UNESCO. This exceptional victory reflects the high level of trust in the competence of Egyptian leaders and Egypt’s unique position in global heritage issues.
Egypt also won a seat in the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council for the 2026–2027 term. This victory affirms Egypt’s pivotal role in supporting the global maritime navigation system and acknowledges the international importance of the Suez Canal, a vital artery for global maritime traffic. The victory was the result of coordinated efforts led by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, its embassies abroad, in cooperation with the Ministry of Transport.
Egypt was also elected to the United Nations Human Rights Council for the 2026–2028 term, reflecting international confidence in Egypt’s reform approach in the field of human rights. This includes the implementation of the National Human Rights Strategy, updating the criminal justice system, developing rehabilitation and correction centers, expanding social protection, and empowering women, youth, and people with disabilities. It also includes integrating human rights into the state’s plans and programs.
Egypt obtained a seat on the Executive Board of UNESCO for the 2025–2029 term, reflecting Egypt’s cultural, scientific, and civilizational influence. It highlights Egypt’s contributions to preserving global heritage, advancing education, and fostering innovation. This is part of Egypt’s long-standing active participation in promoting the noble goals of UNESCO.
Egypt was also elected to the Council of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) for the 2025–2028 term, confirming Egypt’s leadership in civil aviation matters and its strategic geographical position for global air traffic.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs coordinated this election campaign with the Ministry of Civil Aviation.
Egyptian diplomat Mina Rizk was elected as the Independent Chairperson of the Council of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), reflecting international confidence in Egypt’s diplomatic capabilities in food security and agricultural development. This enhances Egypt’s contribution to shaping international policies related to food and agriculture.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that it will continue its efforts to elevate our beloved homeland’s standing in international forums and organizations, defending Egyptian, Arab, African, and developing Southern countries’ interests. This will contribute to international justice, respect for international law, and the achievement of security, peace, and prosperity for all peoples of the world. (MENA)
