Egypt, EU Discuss Strengthening Mediterranean Relations

Foreign Minister (FM) Badr Abdel Atty held a phone call on Monday with Dubravka Šuica, the European Commissioner for Mediterranean Affairs, to discuss ways to enhance relations between Egypt and the European Union, particularly in the Mediterranean region.

Abdel Atty congratulated Commissioner Šuica on her new role, expressing hopes to build upon the momentum in Egypt-EU relations, particularly following the establishment of a comprehensive strategic partnership in March 2024.

Moreover, FM emphasized the importance of deepening political and economic cooperation with the EU, especially in trade and investment. He highlighted the need to implement the outcomes of the Egypt-EU Investment Conference held in Cairo in June 2024, which resulted in the signing of 29 agreements worth approximately €49 billion.

Additionally, Abdel Atty urged the acceleration of the EU’s €7.4 billion funding package for Egypt, including the release of a €1 billion first tranche and approval of a €4 billion second tranche by the European Parliament.

FM stressed the need for enhanced Egypt-EU cooperation in the Mediterranean to address shared challenges, underscoring principles such as respect for state sovereignty, international law, and peace and security.

For his part, Šuica expressed her appreciation for Egypt’s constructive regional efforts, recognizing the country as a pillar of stability in the Middle East.