BEBA hosts farewell dinner for British Ambassador Gareth Bayley, celebrates legacy of partnership

Cairo, July 10, 2025 – The British Egyptian Business Association (BEBA) held a special farewell dinner on July 7th in honor of H.E. Gareth Bayley, the outgoing British Ambassador to Egypt, celebrating his impactful tenure and bidding him a warm goodbye as he concludes his diplomatic mission.

The event brought together distinguished guests, including H.E. Rania Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation; H.E. Sameh El-Hefny, Minister of Civil Aviation; former Petroleum Minister Tarek El-Molla; and former Electricity Minister Mohamed Shaker.

BEBA Chairman Khaled Nosseir delivered an opening tribute, praising Ambassador Bayley’s dedication to strengthening UK-Egypt ties across economic, cultural, and social spheres.

“You didn’t just represent the UK — you became part of our community, — listening, engaging, and always working to strengthen the relationship between our two countries.” Nosseir said. “Under your leadership, the embassy has been a hub of collaboration. From business and trade to education, culture, and innovation, you have championed British-Egyptian partnerships with passion and purpose.”

In an emotional farewell address, Ambassador Bayley reflected on his deep affection for Egypt and its people, calling the friendships he formed “one big family.” He described Egyptians as possessing “a unique energy, genuine love, and an open spirit,” adding, “I am gonna truly miss Egyptians… yes, that may sound like a cliché, but it is true.

Bayley, who first visited Egypt in 1997 and later became the UK’s 48th ambassador to Cairo, highlighted the enduring strength of bilateral ties, noting that the 239-year diplomatic relationship accounts for over 3 per cent of Egypt’s recorded history.

He identified eight promising sectors for future UK-Egypt cooperation — including clean energy, life sciences, professional services, and agricultural technology — and urged both nations to expand commercial collaboration. “The UK is not the top investor in Egypt right now, but we must work to reclaim that position,” he said.

The ambassador praised BEBA’s role in growing bilateral trade since its founding in 1996, with membership expanding from 100 to nearly 800 companies today. He also recognised the vital contributions of senior Egyptian officials, singlling out Minister Al-Mashat as a “champion of Egypt’s economic sustainability,” particularly in advancing the water-energy-food nexus. In addition, he extended his thanks to Minister of Civil Aviation Sameh El-Hefny, former Minister of Petroleum Tarek El-Molla, and former Minister of Electricity Mohamed Shaker for their continued support in advancing UK-Egypt cooperation.

Bayley announced that Mark Bryson-Richardson will succeed him as UK Ambassador on August 22. He described him as “an upgrade” rather than just a replacement, noting that he speaks Arabic fluently and has a deep love for Egypt.

Closing with humour and heartfelt gratitude, Bayley told attendees, “Forget Gareth and save Mark’s number in your phones. And if you miss me, just remember the saying: distance makes the heart grow fonder. I will miss you all and look forward to seeing you in London.”