Ahmed Kamel – Egypt Daily News
Former Egyptian Foreign Minister Samih Shoukry has described his appointment to the House of Representatives as an honor and a renewed responsibility, saying it allows him to continue serving the country and its people after a long career in public service.
Shoukry was among 28 members appointed by President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi to the lower chamber of parliament ahead of the third legislative term. In remarks to Extra News television, he said the president’s confidence represents a “precious mandate” that he is determined to live up to through serious and effective parliamentary work.
The veteran diplomat emphasized that his new role is a natural extension of his decades-long service to Egypt, expressing hope that he will succeed in contributing meaningfully to the legislative process during the coming five years. He noted that the priorities of the next parliamentary term will focus primarily on issues that directly affect the daily lives of Egyptian citizens, with the aim of advancing development and improving living standards.
Shoukry highlighted economic development as a central concern shared by both the legislative and executive branches, stressing that sustainable growth and its tangible impact on citizens’ welfare remain a core national objective. He said lawmakers are expected to work closely with the government to ensure that economic policies translate into real social and developmental gains.
Beyond domestic legislation, Shoukry pointed to the growing importance of parliamentary diplomacy, noting that Egypt’s parliament plays a significant role in strengthening cooperation with legislative bodies around the world. Such engagement, he explained, serves as an additional pillar supporting Egypt’s bilateral relations and broader foreign policy goals.
He added that active participation in regional and international parliamentary organizations, including the Inter-Parliamentary Union and the Arab Parliament, helps deepen parliamentary ties and promotes coordinated action on shared challenges at both regional and global levels.
Shoukry brings extensive diplomatic experience to parliament, having served as Egypt’s foreign minister for nearly a decade during a period marked by regional upheaval and shifting international alliances. His appointment is widely seen as part of a broader effort to benefit from seasoned expertise within the legislative institution, particularly as Egypt navigates complex economic reforms and evolving regional dynamics.
With the new parliament expected to debate key legislation related to economic restructuring, social protection, and foreign engagement, Shoukry’s transition from diplomacy to lawmaking underscores the increasingly interconnected nature of Egypt’s domestic priorities and international outlook.
