Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi commended outgoing African Development Bank (AfDB) President Akinwumi Adesina for his pivotal role in securing funding to advance development goals across Africa. The remarks were made during a meeting in Cairo on Monday, where El-Sisi also praised Adesina for strengthening the AfDB’s influence on the continent and wished him success in his future endeavors as he steps down from his role.

El-Sisi reaffirmed Egypt’s unwavering support for the AfDB and its commitment to working closely with the incoming president. Both leaders emphasized the critical role of the private sector in driving development, creating jobs, ensuring food and water security, improving energy efficiency, enhancing manufacturing capabilities, and advancing digital transformation. They also underscored the importance of the AfDB’s continued support for Egypt’s ongoing efforts to achieve economic growth, development, and reform.

In response, Adesina expressed deep gratitude for President El-Sisi’s steadfast support, which has significantly bolstered the bank’s development initiatives across Africa in recent years. Adesina, who has served as the AfDB’s 8th elected president since May 2015, was first elected during the bank’s Annual Meetings in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. His tenure has been marked by a focus on transformative projects and economic empowerment across the continent.

The meeting highlighted the strong partnership between Egypt and the AfDB, with both leaders advocating for sustained collaboration to address Africa’s developmental challenges. As Adesina prepares to leave his position, his legacy includes significant strides in infrastructure, agriculture, and economic integration, leaving a robust foundation for his successor to build upon.