Deputy Speaker of the Egyptian House of Representatives and President Emeritus of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean (PAM), Mohamed Abou El Enein, delivered a powerful message at the South Partner Consultation Forum hosted by the American University in Cairo, emphasizing that the two-state solution is essential for peace, stability, and sustainable development across the Mediterranean region.
Two-State Solution: The Cornerstone of Peace
In his remarks, Abou El Enein stated unequivocally that the unresolved Palestinian issue is the main obstacle to progress in the southern Mediterranean. He emphasized that any serious effort to achieve regional development must begin with a political solution founded on justice and international legitimacy.
“The two-state solution is not a slogan—it is the only viable path to ensure peace and unlock prosperity,” he said. “Without resolving the Palestinian cause, cycles of war will continue to hinder cooperation, scare away investment, and destabilize the region.”
Egypt’s Leadership and a Call for EU Action
Highlighting Egypt’s historic role in peacemaking and mediation, Abou El Enein praised Cairo’s continuous efforts to restore calm in Gaza and support a long-term solution. He urged the European Union to translate its supportive statements into real, strategic action on the ground, starting with a clearer commitment to the two-state solution and the economic future of the South.
“While China arrives in Cairo with investment proposals and a clear plan, we need the same level of practical engagement from the EU,” he said, calling on Brussels to develop a roadmap that matches ambition with implementation.
Economic Stability Requires Political Resolution
Abou El Enein noted that political peace and economic prosperity go hand in hand. “You cannot talk about energy projects, agriculture, or industry while bombs are falling in Gaza,” he said. “Let us be honest—development is not possible in an environment dominated by conflict.”
He emphasized that Egypt and its southern partners are ready for joint development, but international frameworks must prioritize justice and human dignity first.
PAM’s Role in Mediterranean Dialogue
As President Emeritus of PAM, Abou El Enein reaffirmed the organization’s full support for the new EU Pact for the Mediterranean and its active contribution to shaping the political and human rights dimensions of that framework. “Our Charter for the Mediterranean, adopted in 2008, anticipated the same values being discussed today,” he said.
He emphasized PAM’s unique position as a non-governmental parliamentary platform with unmatched reach and trust across member states, committed to dialogue, peacebuilding, and concrete cooperation.
Conclusion: From Words to Action
In closing, Abou El Enein urged all stakeholders to move from consultation to commitment and to put the two-state solution back at the center of the Mediterranean partnership agenda.
“The time for half-measures is over. Let us build a new era of peace, but it must begin with justice—and that means a sovereign Palestinian state living in peace alongside Israel,” he concluded.
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