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Cairo, Egypt- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Embassy of Denmark, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Egypt, and CCCPA officially launched the new phase of the Danish-Egyptian Dialogue Initiative (DEDI). The new project was signed by H.E Ambassador Hamdy Shaaban, Assistant Minister, Director of the International Cooperation for Development Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Alessandro Fracassetti, Resident Representative, UNDP Egypt; Mr. Frej Jackson, Chargé d’ Affaires, Embassy of Denmark; and Ambassador Seif Kandeel, Director General of the Cairo International Center for Conflict Resolution, Peacekeeping and Peacebuilding (CCCPA). The new project represents a shared commitment to fostering sustainable development, advancing youth-led innovation, and deepening bilateral cooperation on climate action and security.
This next four-year phase of DEDI, backed by USD 4.3 million in funding from the Danish Arab Partnership Programme (DAPP) focuses on three interconnected components that collectively advance climate action and youth empowerment. The first centers on innovation in sustainable design, aiming to empower young entrepreneurs to pioneer green solutions in sectors such as furniture and textiles, with an emphasis on circular economy practices like recycling and waste reduction. The second enhances green environmental literacy by strengthening environmental awareness and climate education among Egyptian youth, equipping them to become informed advocates for sustainable change. The third promotes youth dialogue on climate and security by establishing platforms for youth-led discussions and expert exchanges between Egypt, Denmark, and Africa, exploring the vital links between climate resilience, peace, and regional stability.
From his side, Assistant Minister and Director of the International Cooperation for Development Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, HE. Ambassador Hamdy Shabaan said, “DEDI reflects our shared commitment to fostering innovation and sustainability. Building climate-conscious generations is crucial for securing a sustainable future. Through DEDI, we aim to promote green environmental literacy, empowering the younger generation to tackle climate and environmental challenges.” He added, “The project also emphasizes a circular economy, particularly in the furniture and textile/clothing sectors. Embracing solutions like solid waste management and recycling in these sectors will help drive green growth and sustainable development.”
Mr. Frej Jackson, Chargé d’ Affaires, Embassy of Denmark in Egypt said, "For over two decades, DEDI has been a vital bridge in Cairo, fostering exchange, dialogue, and green growth initiatives between Egypt and Denmark. We are very pleased to continue this crucial work in the coming years in close partnership with UNDP and CCCPA, aiming to inspire young people with new green adventures and spark dynamic discussions on the circular economy, environmental awareness, and the critical intersection of climate and security,”
From his side, UNDP Egypt Resident Representative Alessandro Fracassetti said, “This new phase of the DEDI project represents a strategic step forward in our shared efforts to accelerate innovation as a driver of sustainable development. Over the next four years, UNDP will deepen its collaboration with national partners and the Government of Denmark to support Egypt’s green transition—placing young people at the center of this transformation.” He added: “By advancing green literacy, promoting inclusive dialogue, and investing in youth-led innovation and entrepreneurship, we are not just preparing for the future—we are building it, today.”
In his speech, Ambassador Seif Kandeel, Director General of CCCPA highlighted that “Following President Abdel Fattah El Sisi’s signing of the strategic partnership with Denmark in Copenhagen last year, we have seen a significant strengthening of bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors. The Danish Egyptian Dialogue Initiative initially focuses on sustainable youth climate action and enhancing environmental literacy, both of which are critical to driving green growth and addressing global challenges. This collaboration is equipping a new generation of leaders with the necessary tools to navigate the evolving landscape of climate diplomacy.” He added that, “As we move forward, it also recognizes the intersection between peace, climate, and security as the inclusion of women and youth remains fundamental in creating solutions that are sensitive to conflict and that foster long-term, sustainable change.”
The project will be governed under the existing bilateral agreement between the Kingdom of Denmark and the Arab Republic of Egypt and implemented through a partnership model emphasizing dialogue, mutual learning, and joint action.
