Egypt and Syria Deepen Economic Ties: Ministers Meet at IMF/World Bank Gatherings

Egyptian Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Egyptian Expatriates Badr Abdelatty held discussions with Syrian Finance Minister Mohammed Yisr Barnieh on Friday, October 16, 2026. The meeting took place in Bangkok on the sidelines of the annual meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group. The primary focus of their talks was to explore avenues for strengthening bilateral relations between Egypt and Syria.

According to Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Nader Zaki, the discussions centered on enhancing cooperation, particularly in the economic and financial sectors. Both ministers underscored the long-standing historical and fraternal bonds that connect their two nations and peoples.

Zaki also highlighted that Abdelatty welcomed the recent successful visit of an Egyptian economic delegation to Syria, characterizing it as a significant stride towards advancing bilateral economic cooperation. Furthermore, preparations are reportedly in progress for Abdelatty to undertake a visit to Damascus in the near future.