Vladimír Špidla, EU Employment, Social Affairs and Equal Opportunities Commissioner, has travelled to Egypt to discuss cooperation with the EU on employment and social issues. The two sides have exchanged experiences on tackling the social impacts of the economic crisis and discuss progress towards social and employment objectives under the EU's neighbourhood policy.

As part of the European Neighbourhood Policy, the EU and Egypt agreed a series of social and employment objectives for the period 2007-2010 and beyond including cooperation on combating poverty, tackling discrimination and promoting equal opportunities, fostering employment and strengthening social dialogue.

The Commissioner's visit has provided an opportunity for both sides to take stock of progress towards these objectives while also sharing experiences in responding to the social and employment impacts of the economic crisis.

The visit has helped to enhance cooperation between the Commission and the Egyptian co-presidency of the Union for the Mediterranean in implementing the framework for actions agreed by Euromed employment and labour ministers.

During his visit (13-16 November), Commissioner Špidla will meet with Prime Minister Mr Ahmed Nazif; Ms Aisha Abdel Hadi, Minister for Manpower and Migration; Mr Ali Al-Moselhi, Minister for Social Solidarity; and Ms Mushira Khatab, Minister for Family and Population. He will also meet with Egyptian social partners and visit a number of EU-funded projects in the social field.