Ashraf AboArafe
CAIRO, EGYPT — October 25, 2026 — European Investment Bank (EIB) Vice-President Gelsomina Vigliotti is visiting Egypt from October 25 to 27 to strengthen the longstanding strategic partnership between the European Union’s lending institution and Egypt, with a focus on renewable energy, sustainable finance, private-sector development, and inclusive economic growth.
The visit will feature high-level meetings, public engagements, and visits to EIB-supported projects, highlighting the Bank’s commitment to advancing Egypt’s green transition and mobilizing investment to support sustainable development.
Accelerating Egypt’s Clean Energy Transition
During her visit, Vice-President Vigliotti will announce new EIB support for a landmark renewable energy project combining utility-scale solar power with battery energy storage systems (BESS). The project aims to provide reliable, clean electricity to Egyptian businesses, accelerate industrial decarbonization, and advance Egypt’s renewable energy ambitions.
The initiative will contribute to the objectives of the EU-Egypt Strategic and Comprehensive Partnership, the Global Gateway strategy, and the Trans-Mediterranean Renewable Energy and Clean Technology Cooperation Initiative, reinforcing cooperation on clean energy, climate action, and sustainable economic development.
Expanding Access to Finance and Empowering Businesses
The EIB will also introduce new financial programmes designed to provide Egyptian enterprises with long-term growth capital, improve access to finance, and support job creation.
Additional initiatives will help Egypt’s financial sector strengthen its capacity to manage climate-related risks, expand green financing, and promote circular economy solutions. Particular attention will be given to developing targeted financial products for women, young people, and rural entrepreneurs, helping broaden economic opportunities and encourage more inclusive growth.
By supporting businesses and financial institutions, the EIB aims to strengthen the foundations for private-sector investment, innovation, and employment across Egypt.
Water Security, Climate Resilience, and Strategic Dialogue
Vice-President Vigliotti will deliver a keynote address at the opening ceremony of Cairo Water Week, engaging with stakeholders on Egypt’s priorities in water security, sustainable water management, and climate resilience.
Her programme also includes meetings with senior Egyptian government officials, financial-sector leaders, and European Union partners, as well as visits to project sites demonstrating how EIB financing and advisory services help local companies improve resource efficiency, strengthen environmental performance, and enhance international competitiveness.
The visit underscores the EIB’s role as a long-term partner in mobilizing public and private investment across strategic sectors, while deepening EU-Egypt cooperation on the green transition and sustainable, inclusive growth.
Statement by EIB Vice-President Gelsomina Vigliotti
“Egypt is a pivotal partner for the European Investment Bank and the European Union. This visit marks the launch of dynamic new joint initiatives focused on expanding clean energy, reinforcing enterprise, and building a more resilient, inclusive financial sector. Together, these actions will mobilize vital investment, create sustainable opportunities, and turn our shared EU-Egypt commitments into tangible progress for citizens and businesses alike.”
Media Opportunities
Interviews and audiovisual coverage opportunities will be available at selected events during the official visit to Cairo. Journalists seeking interviews or additional media materials are invited to contact the EIB Press Office.
Background Information
About the European Investment Bank Group
The European Investment Bank (EIB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union and is owned by its 27 Member States. It is one of the world’s largest multilateral development banks.
In 2025, the EIB Group signed €100 billion in new financing and advisory commitments, supporting more than 870 projects across eight core policy priorities: climate action and environmental sustainability; digitalisation and technological innovation; security and defence; regional cohesion; agriculture and the bioeconomy; social infrastructure; strong global partnerships; and the Savings and Investments Union.
Alongside long-term infrastructure financing, the EIB Group helps mobilise private capital for innovative businesses and higher-risk ventures through instruments including venture debt, venture capital, guarantees, and securitisation.
The European Investment Fund (EIF), part of the EIB Group, specialises in venture capital, guarantees, and private equity to improve access to finance for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and start-ups across Europe. Working with a broad network of partner banks and investment funds, the EIF supports entrepreneurship and innovation, including through its role in the European Tech Champions Initiative (ETCI).
Media resources, including executive portraits, institutional logos, and broadcast-quality footage, are available through the EIB Media Library.
About EIB Global
EIB Global is the EIB Group’s specialised arm for international partnerships and development finance. Working within Team Europe alongside development finance institutions, governments, and civil society organisations, EIB Global seeks to strengthen the impact of international cooperation and bring the Group’s financing and expertise closer to local communities, businesses, and institutions through its worldwide network of offices.
