CAIRO: Egypt’s ministers responsible for education have discussed closer cooperation with Saudi Arabia in meetings with the Kingdom’s ambassador in Cairo. Reda Hegazy, the minister for education, explained his goals to Osama bin Ahmed Nugali, including providing digital skills for all, developing professional and technical education, and increasing competitiveness internationally. Hegazy said that teachers were being trained to encourage creativity and innovation in their students, and to spot special talents. Ayman Ashour, the minister of higher education and scientific research, met Nugali to discuss closer scientific cooperation between their countries. Ashour hailed the opening of King Salman International University in South Sinai as an example of close ties between Egypt and Saudi Arabia, and stressed the importance of exchanging experiences as well as students and staff. Nugali and Ashour discussed the latest developments in the inauguration of the King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud Chair for Islamic Studies at Cairo University, an exchange initiative with Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University in Riyadh. The ambassador praised the historical ties between the two countries and the importance of cooperation in education. He discussed with Ashour preparations for the ceremony to present the 10th King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz International Award for Translation in Egypt next month, while also inviting Hegazy.