Egypt and the United States: Partnership for Peace and Prosperity

The American Chamber of Commerce in Egypt (AmCham Egypt) is dedicated to strengthening and deepening the U.S.-Egyptian partnership, a relationship that is based on bilateral trade, mutually shared values, and Egypt’s strategic role in the Middle East. The Doorknock Mission seeks to communicate Egypt’s business perspective, gain an understanding of how the U.S. perceives Egypt, and exchange ideas to benefit both countries.

AmCham Egypt’s primary role is to promote trade and investment between Egypt and the United States. To advance this objective, we have provided a forum for over 25 years where our members identify and discuss the challenges facing the private sector in an increasingly globalized economy. In addition, we have played an active role in presenting the views of the Egyptian business community to both the Egyptian and U.S. governments, especially on issues such as economic reform, privatization, and free trade. AmCham Egypt’s members are also dedicated to promoting local business development, which has served as the foundation for political stability as well as improved the lives of an increasing number of Egyptians. Building a deeper U.S.-Egyptian commercial and trade relationship will help to sustain reform in Egypt, open new opportunities for American firms, and improve the lives of citizens in both countries.

The strategic partnership between Egypt and the United States reflects a shared commitment to regional peace and security that is based on such values as trade liberalization, free markets, political stability, and a peaceful resolution to regional conflicts. Private sector leaders have been key actors in facilitating democratic and economic reform throughout Egypt, which accounts for 25% of the Arab population, and therefore influences the Middle East region. The U.S.-Egyptian partnership is thus important in promoting both nations’ mutual interests in the Middle East and will increasingly play a crucial role in the region in the coming years.

Egypt has long been a reliable U.S. ally and is central both to maintaining stability and opening up potentially lucrative Arab and African markets to U.S. business. Already, dozens of American companies have established successful operations in Egypt’s domestic market of 80 million consumers, which boasts a strong industrial base and outstanding human resources. Egypt has done its part by enacting extensive economic reforms that have improved the investment climate dramatically. Egypt is now one of the fastest growing economies in the world.

During our spring 2008 mission to Washington, DC, AmCham Egypt delegates hope to promote dialogue on these important issues, with the ultimate aim of enhancing economic cooperation for the mutual benefit of both countries.