Kolkata (West Bengal): Sherine ElSharkawy, Egypt’s Deputy Minister of Finance for Economic Affairs, has called India an attractive destination for ‘tourism and investment’.
She stressed that India has several opportunities, particularly within the information technology sector. “India is an interesting destination both for tourism because of the different cultures and also for investment. There is a lot of business, there is a lot of opportunities, especially in the IT sector,” said Sherine ElSharkawy.
Cultural program and dinner were organized for the G20 delegates on the cruise ship ‘The Bengal Paddle’ in Kolkata. Sherine ElSharkawy called the cultural program on the cruise ship and the hospitality in Kolkata “amazing.” Expressing views regarding exhibitions, Egyptian Minister said, “the exhibitions were really very interesting. It showcased how much India has progressed and how much they have done. I found the exhibitions very useful.”
Sherine Elsharkawy said that she is “really impressed” with India as it has invited international locations not part of the G20 to share their views and concerns with other countries. Sherine ElSharkawy called the working group meetings held under India’s G20 presidency “very useful.”
India assumed the G20 presidency on December 1, 2022.
Sherine ElSharkawy said, “I’m really impressed with how it is dealt with. India has invited many countries not part of G20 to provide their input and to listen to the concerns of other countries,” She also added, “All the working groups that I have attended are beneficial and are helping that discussions and ideas back and forth between the members and non-members. All the topics are very well chosen and very important for the current economic environment,”.
Calling the ties between India and Egypt “very strong”, Sherine Elsharkawy stated both international locations are alike as people.
She said, “We are a lot alike as individuals with a culture, with a like of food, music and religion. All this is very diverse and we have a lot of discussions going on for cooperation between India and Egypt.”
In reaction to a query if she would once more go to India, Sherine Elsharkawy said, “Yes, definitely I will. I look forward to that.” She stated that she attended the G20 meeting in Bengaluru and will revisit India to participate in the discussions in a month or so.
Sherine ElSharkawy said, “The whole atmosphere is very welcoming. In Egypt, we have the river nile, which reminds me of home with a taste of Indian culture. I am really grateful for this opportunity,”.
