InterviewEgypt seeks direct flights, investments as ties with Korea strengthen

Egyptian Ambassador to Korea Khaled Abdel Rahman / Courtesy of Embassy of Egypt in Seoul

Relations between Egypt and Korea are at their strongest in decades, according to Egyptian Ambassador Khaled Abdel Rahman, who noted that both countries are now exploring direct flights and increased investment opportunities as they mark the 30th anniversary of diplomatic ties this year.

“Our partnership is marked by mutual trust, strategic dialogue and expanding cooperation across economic, technological, cultural and developmental fields,” Abdel Rahman said in an interview with The Korea Times. “This year, as we celebrate three decades of formal diplomatic relations, we see the relationship reaching new heights in every sector.”

The ambassador pointed to notable progress in infrastructure, renewable energy, information and communication technology (ICT), automotive manufacturing and education.

“Korean companies have played a vital role in modernizing Egypt’s transport and logistics infrastructure, while joint projects in green hydrogen and solar energy highlight our commitment to sustainable development,” he said.

Digital transformation and smart city initiatives have also become key areas of collaboration, Abdel Rahman noted.

To commemorate the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations, Egypt is expanding academic exchanges, cultural festivals, exhibitions and other initiatives aimed at promoting mutual understanding.

“These programs bring our peoples closer together and reinforce the people-to-people ties that are the foundation of our bilateral partnership,” the ambassador said.

Egypt is actively encouraging Korean investment in several high-potential sectors. Abdel Rahman highlighted renewable energy, particularly green hydrogen and wind power, automotive manufacturing, shipbuilding, ICT and artificial intelligence technologies, tourism infrastructure, and the Suez Canal Economic Zone as a strategic hub for Korean companies to access African, Arab and European markets.

Egypt’s Vision 2030, which prioritizes industrial growth, clean energy, digital transformation and logistics, aligns closely with Korea’s economic strengths.

“This alignment creates opportunities for technology transfer, capacity building and large-scale investments, which can accelerate sustainable growth for both nations,” Abdel Rahman said.

Several successful Korea-Egypt business partnerships illustrate this growing cooperation. Hyundai Rotem has been instrumental in modernizing Egypt’s railway systems, while Samsung Electronics recently expanded its manufacturing plant in Beni Suef. Korean firms are also contributing to Egypt’s smart city projects and renewable energy developments, alongside vocational training programs designed to enhance local workforce skills.

On trade facilitation, Abdel Rahman said both governments are working to reduce barriers by streamlining customs procedures, harmonizing technical standards, and facilitating market access.

“Our goal is to make trade more efficient and competitive, enabling businesses in both countries to thrive,” he said.

Korea and Egypt are considering direct flights, after completing technical and market assessments. The ambassador noted that the route would likely increase tourism, reduce logistics costs, strengthen business ties and generate investment opportunities in hospitality, aviation, and cultural tourism.

“Direct flights would also strengthen academic, cultural and professional exchanges, creating a more dynamic flow of ideas and expertise between our nations,” he added.

Challenges remain, including finalizing aviation agreements, securing airline partnerships and ensuring sufficient passenger demand for sustainable operations. Regulatory alignment on safety and service standards is also essential before the route becomes operational.

Looking ahead, Abdel Rahman envisions a comprehensive strategic partnership in five years.

“We expect to see high-value industrial cooperation, increased trade volumes, expanded cultural exchanges and joint leadership on global issues such as climate change, green technology and peacebuilding,” he said.

“People-to-people ties will remain the bedrock of our relationship,” he added. “Exchange programs, tourism, cultural diplomacy and educational collaboration build trust and mutual understanding. These connections create a fertile environment for long-term business partnerships and sustainable economic growth, ensuring that Egypt-Korea relations continue to flourish for decades to come.”