Latest news with #Boulos
Daily News Egypt
25-05-2025
- Business
- Daily News Egypt
DR Congo hopeful of US minerals deal, peace support amid Rwanda tensions
Officials from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have expressed optimism about securing an agreement with the United States next month for American investment in critical minerals and US support for efforts to end an insurgency in the country's east, which the DRC accuses Rwanda of backing, the Financial Times reported on Sunday. The British newspaper, citing two sources close to the negotiations, said that concluding an investment deal with the United States and a separate peace agreement with Rwanda could be possible by the end of June, although significant potential obstacles remain. Congo's Minister of Mines, Kizito Pakabomba, told the newspaper that an agreement with the US would help 'diversify our partnerships,' thereby reducing the nation's reliance on China for the exploitation of its vast mineral wealth. The United Nations and Western governments state that Rwanda provides the 'March 23' (M23) rebel movement with weapons and troops. The government of Rwandan President Paul Kagame denies supporting the M23 movement, asserting that its military operations are in self-defence against 'hostile forces.' Kinshasa has long accused neighbouring Rwanda of illegally exploiting these minerals. The DRC government views the plunder of its mineral resources as a primary driver of the conflict between its forces and the M23 rebels in eastern Congo, a conflict that has intensified since January. Kinshasa accuses Kigali of smuggling tens of millions of dollars worth of minerals across the border monthly for sale from Rwanda. Reuters reported last week that minerals from Congo could be legitimately exported to Rwanda for processing under the terms of a peace agreement currently being negotiated with the United States. US Diplomatic Push Massad Boulos, a senior advisor to former US President Donald Trump on African affairs, said earlier this month that Washington is pushing for a peace agreement to be signed between the two sides this summer. This would be accompanied by bilateral minerals agreements with both countries, aimed at attracting billions of dollars in Western investment to the region. Boulos, who met with Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi in Kinshasa and Rwandan President Paul Kagame in Kigali in April, indicated that he had presented both parties with an initial draft of a peace agreement. A source familiar with the discussions said that Boulos, described as an envoy of former President Trump to Africa and the father-in-law of his daughter Tiffany, had called for another round of negotiations in Washington next week to address some outstanding differences. The Financial Times noted that the United States hopes to re-establish its influence in the mining sector, which has been largely dominated by China since Beijing secured a multi-billion dollar 'mines for infrastructure' deal with Kinshasa in 2008. According to the newspaper, the scope of Kinshasa's negotiations with Washington is ambitious, combining access for American companies to lithium, cobalt, and coltan deposits in return for investment in infrastructure and mines, alongside efforts to end three decades of conflict in the border regions with Rwanda. Rwanda has long faced accusations of 'exploiting security concerns across its borders as a cover for plundering Congo's resources,' including coltan, used in mobile phones, and gold. Tense Negotiations However, highlighting the tensions in the talks, DRC officials stated there would be no consideration of authorising Rwanda's participation in Congo's minerals trade until M23 rebels withdraw from territory they have controlled since January, and Rwandan forces allegedly supporting them also pull back across the border. A senior Congolese official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said: 'It will be difficult for us to accept this, especially since Rwandan forces are still present in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and M23 forces are still committing violations.' Sources familiar with the talks said Kigali viewed the negotiations as an opportunity to legitimise its access to Congolese resources and attract American investment to expand its existing mineral processing capabilities. However, Kinshasa first wants to regain control of lost territory, including the cities of Goma and Bukavu, before considering such possibilities. The Financial Times quoted Rwandan government spokesperson Yolande Makolo as saying that defensive measures taken by Rwanda on the border are necessary as long as threats and the causes of insecurity persist in the DRC. Separately, Makolo, also identified as Kagame's spokesperson, reiterated, 'Rwandan defensive measures along the border are necessary, as long as the threats and insecurity in the Democratic Republic of Congo continue.' She considered that the most important aspect, beyond the timing of any peace agreement, is that 'it [the agreement] addresses the root causes and is sustainable,' noting that Rwanda is 'optimistic' about the approach being taken by the US administration. Makolo added: 'Economic cooperation between the countries of the region, which strengthens our strengths, and benefits all our peoples, is what we have always aspired to for this part of the continent. That is why we are committed to this process.' A US State Department spokesperson said, 'Both sides have committed to working towards peaceful resolutions of the issues driving the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo and to bringing greater transparency to natural resource supply chains.' The spokesperson added that 'respect for each country's territorial integrity is central to this process.'
See - Sada Elbalad
21-05-2025
- Business
- See - Sada Elbalad
U.S. Senior Advisor for Africa Visits Egypt
Nada Mustafa U.S. Senior Advisor for Africa, Massad Boulos, visited Egypt from May 17-20, 2025, to consult on efforts to advance regional peace and security. During the trip, Mr. Boulos met with President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi to discuss critical challenges and opportunities facing the region. He also held a productive meeting with Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty, where they addressed topics including the recent instability in Libya and efforts to end the conflict in Sudan. Additionally, Mr. Boulos met with EGIS Director Rashad to discuss cooperation to resolve regional conflicts. During his visit, Mr. Boulos also participated in and gave remarks at the Egypt 5G Forum, which brought together senior Egyptian government officials, partner countries, global telecommunications leaders, and international policymakers to promote trusted vendors and secure infrastructure for the rollout of 5G technology in Egypt. He also toured the Grand Egyptian Museum, where he was deeply impressed by the museum's remarkable exhibits and the dedication to preserving Egypt's rich cultural heritage. He congratulated the Egyptian people on the upcoming grand opening in July, recognizing it as a significant milestone for Egypt and the world. Deputy Speaker of Parliament Mohamed Abou Enein also hosted Mr. Boulos at Parliament and gave him a tour of the historic building, during which Mr. Boulos highlighted his appreciation for Egypt's rich political heritage. Throughout these meetings, Mr. Boulos emphasized the importance of the U.S.-Egypt partnership, highlighting that frank dialogue is essential in addressing regional challenges and promoting stability, peace, and prosperity in Africa. To this end, the United States and Egypt look forward to further consultations on cooperation in Africa within the framework of the next phase of the Joint U.S.-Egypt Strategic Dialogue. Sisi and U.S. Senior Advisor for Africa read more Gold prices rise, 21 Karat at EGP 3685 NATO's Role in Israeli-Palestinian Conflict US Expresses 'Strong Opposition' to New Turkish Military Operation in Syria Shoukry Meets Director-General of FAO Lavrov: confrontation bet. nuclear powers must be avoided News Iran Summons French Ambassador over Foreign Minister Remarks News Aboul Gheit Condemns Israeli Escalation in West Bank News Greek PM: Athens Plays Key Role in Improving Energy Security in Region News One Person Injured in Explosion at Ukrainian Embassy in Madrid News Egypt confirms denial of airspace access to US B-52 bombers News Ayat Khaddoura's Final Video Captures Bombardment of Beit Lahia News Australia Fines Telegram $600,000 Over Terrorism, Child Abuse Content Arts & Culture Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban's $4.7M LA Home Burglarized Sports Former Al Zamalek Player Ibrahim Shika Passes away after Long Battle with Cancer Sports Neymar Announced for Brazil's Preliminary List for 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers News Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly Inaugurates Two Indian Companies Arts & Culture New Archaeological Discovery from 26th Dynasty Uncovered in Karnak Temple Business Fear & Greed Index Plummets to Lowest Level Ever Recorded amid Global Trade War Arts & Culture Zahi Hawass: Claims of Columns Beneath the Pyramid of Khafre Are Lies
Egypt Today
19-05-2025
- Business
- Egypt Today
U.S. Expresses Strong Support for Egypt's 5G Expansion
Senior Advisor to the U.S. President on Arab and Middle Eastern Affairs Massad Boulos CAIRO - 19 MAY 2025: Massad Boulos, Senior Advisor to the U.S. President on Middle Eastern Affairs, highlighted the United States' commitment to boosting the deployment of 5G technology in Egypt. Speaking at the 5G Forum—held with key partners including the U.S. Embassy, the EU, and leading telecom firms—Boulos noted that Egypt is fully prepared to implement 5G networks. He emphasized the U.S. readiness, alongside trusted international suppliers, to support Egypt's 5G launch through new public-private partnerships. Boulos also stressed the importance of ensuring security and mutual benefits as the technology rolls out. Reflecting on President Trump's vision, Boulos said that strengthening trade relations will be a cornerstone of global economic growth in the coming decade. He added that 5G will revolutionize connectivity and how societies engage with technology, making it a strategic priority worldwide. The forum serves as a critical platform to enhance cooperation and accelerate 5G adoption in the region, with the U.S. pledging full support to all stakeholders involved.
Al-Ahram Weekly
19-05-2025
- Politics
- Al-Ahram Weekly
Trump adviser hails Grand Egyptian Museum as global showcase of ancient civilization - Tourism
US President Donald Trump's senior adviser on Arab and Middle Eastern affairs, Massad Boulos, toured the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) this week, describing it as a 'global cultural landmark' that reflects the richness of Egypt's ancient civilization. Accompanied by a high-level US delegation, Boulos was shown the museum's Grand Hall, outdoor plaza, Grand Staircase, and main galleries, which trace Egyptian history from the pre-dynastic period to the Greco-Roman era. GEM CEO Ahmed Ghoneim led the tour. In a statement, Egypt's Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities said Boulos commended the museum's presentation of Egypt's heritage in line with international standards and emphasized its role in promoting global understanding through culture. According to the ministry, the visit forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen cultural ties between Egypt and the US and highlights the value of heritage in fostering dialogue between nations. GEM, slated to open on 3 July, is positioned as a global centre for Egyptology and cultural research and a major tourism attraction. Follow us on: Facebook Instagram Whatsapp Short link:
Daily News Egypt
18-05-2025
- Politics
- Daily News Egypt
Al-Sisi meets Trump's adviser to discuss Gaza ceasefire, regional stability
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi met on Sunday with Massad Boulos, Senior Adviser to US President Donald Trump on Arab, Middle Eastern, and African Affairs, to discuss bilateral relations and pressing regional issues, including the ongoing war in Gaza and developments in Libya, Lebanon, Sudan, and Yemen. The high-level talks were attended by Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty and General Intelligence Chief Hassan Rashad. The US delegation included Ambassador Herro Mustafa, the US envoy to Cairo, and Joshua Harris, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for North Africa. According to Presidential Spokesperson Mohamed El-Shennawy, Boulos conveyed greetings from President Trump. President Al-Sisi, in turn, reaffirmed the strength of strategic ties between Egypt and the United States, and reiterated Cairo's commitment to enhancing cooperation across multiple areas of mutual interest. At the center of the discussions was the escalating conflict in Gaza. President Al-Sisi called for an immediate ceasefire and stressed the urgent need to deliver humanitarian aid to civilians. He highlighted the importance of ongoing mediation efforts led by Egypt, the US, and Qatar, and expressed Egypt's readiness to maintain close coordination with Washington moving forward. Boulos reaffirmed the Trump administration's commitment to continued collaboration with Egypt in restoring regional stability, emphasizing that such efforts align with the broader interests of all stakeholders. The two sides also discussed the protracted crisis in Libya. President Al-Sisi reiterated Egypt's support for a Libyan-led political process, stressing the importance of unifying the country's political institutions and forming a credible government capable of organizing simultaneous presidential and parliamentary elections. He emphasized Egypt's direct stake in Libya's stability, given their shared border and intertwined security interests. Further talks addressed developments in Lebanon, Sudan, and Yemen, with both parties underscoring the need to safeguard the sovereignty, unity, and resources of these nations. The meeting also included a broader review of developments across the African continent, particularly in the Horn of Africa and the Sahel. Discussions focused on strategies to promote long-term stability, strengthen state institutions, and address mounting geopolitical and environmental challenges. The visit comes amid a rapidly deteriorating situation in Gaza, as regional and international actors—including Egypt and the United States—intensify efforts to broker a ceasefire and avert further humanitarian catastrophe.
