Ahmed Kamel – Egypt Daily News
Warm Reception Marks High-Level French Visit:
President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi received French President Emmanuel Macron on Saturday at the new campus of Senghor University in Borg El Arab New City, Alexandria, where the two leaders shared a symbolic group photo ahead of the official inauguration ceremony.
The moment, captured shortly after Macron’s arrival, reflected a visibly warm exchange between the two leaders, who were seen engaging in friendly conversation and exchanging greetings before the start of formal proceedings.
A Strategic Academic Opening in Alexandria:
The visit comes as Egypt hosts the inauguration of the new headquarters of Université Senghor, a key francophone academic institution focused on training African leaders in development fields. The ceremony is taking place in Borg El Arab New City, a growing educational and industrial hub west of Alexandria.
The event is attended by senior African officials, representatives of the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie, and international academic figures, underscoring the university’s expanding regional role.
Expanded Egyptian–French Dialogue:
According to the Egyptian presidency spokesperson, the French president’s agenda includes high-level bilateral talks with President Sisi covering political, economic, and scientific cooperation. Discussions are also expected to address key regional and international developments, including ongoing crises in the Middle East and broader African security concerns.
The visit builds on a previous landmark trip by Macron to Egypt in April 2025, which saw extended engagements and multiple agreements across strategic sectors.
A Symbol of Deepening Partnership:
The joint appearance at Senghor University highlights the growing importance of Egyptian–French cooperation in higher education and development training across Africa. The new campus is seen as a major upgrade for the institution, designed to enhance its capacity to host students and expand academic programs.
A Modern Academic Hub for Africa:
The university’s new campus spans 10 feddans and includes academic buildings, administrative facilities, a conference hall, student accommodation, and sports and cultural areas. Officials describe it as a comprehensive academic environment aligned with sustainable development goals and Africa’s need for trained leadership in governance and public policy.
Diplomacy Meets Education in Borg El Arab:
The inauguration ceremony, blending diplomacy with education, reinforces Egypt’s positioning as a regional center for African development initiatives, while also strengthening its long-standing strategic partnership with France across multiple domains.
