Dr. Shaimaa Aliba: “A Nation’s Power Lies in an Economy Strong Enough to Safeguard Its National Security”
Cairo – Maii Abdo:
In a distinguished academic setting filled with pride and accomplishment, the 6th of October Hall at the Egyptian Military Academy in Dokki witnessed, on Saturday, October 11, 2025, the defense of an exceptional Master’s thesis by Dr. Shaimaa Aliba, entitled:“The Impact of International Economic Blocs on Global Economic Growth and Their Implications for Egyptian National Security.”
The defense was held before a highly regarded academic committee that included:
Maj. Gen. Eng. Essam El-Naggar, Chairman of the General Organization for Export and Import Control
Maj. Gen. Dr. Mohamed El-Desouky, Assistant Director of the Military Academy for Graduate and Strategic Studies
Prof. Dr. Sally Farid, Head of the Economics Department, Faculty of African Studies, Cairo University
Exploring a Vital Link Between Global Economy and National SecurityIn her thesis, Dr. Aliba examined one of the most pressing topics affecting the modern world — the growing influence of international economic alliances on global development and their direct impact on Egypt’s national security.
In a presentation marked by clarity and insight, she highlighted that the current global order is defined by economic transformations that have made economic strength the true foundation of national security.
She asserted:“The strength of a state is no longer defined solely by military capability, but by its capacity to build a sustainable economy that safeguards its resources and adapts to global changes with resilience.”
Dr. Aliba emphasized that Egypt has all the elements required to become a major player in international and regional economic groupings, provided it continues to strengthen local industries, enhance value-added production, and promote regional integration.
Scholarly Recognition and Commendation
Members of the defense committee expressed deep appreciation for the quality and precision of Dr. Aliba’s work.
Maj. Gen. Mohamed El-Desouky praised her strategic understanding of the complex link between economic policy and national security.Maj.
Gen. Essam El-Naggar noted her ability to translate theoretical frameworks into practical applications relevant to Egypt’s current economic landscape.
Prof. Dr. Sally Farid applauded the research’s methodological soundness and analytical depth, describing it as an important addition to modern economic literature.
The committee’s feedback focused on minor developmental notes aimed at enhancing the research’s academic value — comments that Dr. Aliba welcomed with humility and scholarly openness.
A Trailblazer in Industry and Economic Policy
Dr. Shaimaa Aliba represents a rare model of leadership — one that unites industrial experience with academic excellence. She currently serves as:
Chairwoman, SWIC Infinity
Board Member, Chamber of Engineering Industries
Head of the Committee for the Integration of the Informal Sector in Engineering Industries
Member, Executive Committee for Local Manufacturing Development
Vice Chair, Industry and Energy Committee, Egyptian Junior Business Association (EJB)Member, Egyptian Exporters Association
Member of several committees at the Federation of Egyptian Industries, including those for Arab and African Cooperation, Taxes and Customs, SMEs, Standards and Quality, and Informal Sector Regulation
Member, Private Sector Innovation Committee, Ministry of Trade and Industry
Her wide-ranging responsibilities have shaped a comprehensive economic vision, reflected throughout her academic work — blending theory with field-based insight, and demonstrating how research can translate into actionable national strategies.
A Distinguished Academic Path
This achievement marks Dr. Aliba’s second Master’s degree, following an earlier one in Crisis and Risk Management — reaffirming her dedication to continuous learning and her belief in knowledge as a cornerstone of national progress.
Following the defense, she revealed that Maj.
Gen. Mohamed El-Desouky encouraged her to publish her research as a book, to be released at the Cairo International Book Fair, making it her first publicly available academic publication.
She also confirmed her enrollment in a PhD program, signaling her ongoing pursuit of scholarly excellence.
A Gathering of Influential Figures
The defense was attended by an impressive group of dignitaries from Egypt’s economic, industrial, and defense sectors, including:
Maj. Gen. Eng. Tarek Saad Zaghloul, Chairman, Arab International Optronics (Ministry of Defense)Eng.
Mohamed Abdel Karim, former Chairman, Industrial Development AuthorityMaj.
Gen. Eng. Ahmed Abdel Aziz, Chairman, Electronics Factory – Arab Organization for IndustrializationMaj.
Gen. Dr. Hazem Hassan, former Chairman, KIR and Wadi El-Nile CompaniesMaj.
Gen. Bahgat FaridProf.
Dr. Farouk El-Hakim, President of the Egyptian Engineers Association and Secretary-General of the Electrical Engineers AssociationAlong with members of the Federation of Egyptian Industries, the Egyptian Parliament, and Eng. Mohamed El-Mohandes, Head of the Engineering ChamberTheir strong attendance reflected the esteem and credibility Dr. Aliba enjoys among Egypt’s academic and professional circles.
A National Vision Rooted in Economic Sovereignty
During her discussion, Dr. Aliba stressed that economic self-reliance and balanced global openness form the two pillars of Egypt’s national security doctrine.
She noted that regional economic cooperation is key to achieving lasting stability, stating: “The deeper the economic ties between Egypt and its Arab and African neighbors, the stronger our collective ability to overcome challenges and build a secure, sustainable future.”
She also highlighted the importance of expanding Egypt’s engagement in major global blocs, such as the G20 and G7, in line with the state’s vision of diversifying partnerships and strengthening Egypt’s developmental influence at regional and international levels.
A Proud Example of the Modern Egyptian WomanDr. Shaimaa Aliba embodies the spirit of the educated, visionary Egyptian woman — confident, driven, and deeply committed to her country’s progress.
Her research transcends academic study, presenting a strategic framework for aligning economic policy with national security priorities.
Her intellect and professionalism left a profound impression on all attendees, reaffirming that Egypt’s true power lies in its minds — in scholars and innovators who turn ideas into practical blueprints for a stronger, more secure nation.
