In an exclusive interview with Sada El Balad in New York, Ambassador Osama Abdel Khaleq, Egypt’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, outlined Egypt’s vision for regional stability, the future of the Middle East, and the role of the UN amid global polarization and mounting humanitarian crises. Ambassador Abdel Khaleq, one of Egypt’s most experienced diplomats in peace and security issues, explained how Egypt engages in UN diplomacy to safeguard national and regional interests, advance peace pathways, and defend developing nations facing political, environmental, economic, and security pressures.
Speaking on the situation in Palestine, the ambassador said the performance of the Security Council falls short of the scale of the crisis, adding that repeated use of the veto has blocked overdue decisions while the General Assembly has shown a more unified moral stance. He stressed that Egypt is pressing for a ceasefire in Gaza, the unhindered entry of humanitarian aid, and a clear path toward ending the occupation and establishing a Palestinian state.
Addressing Egypt’s broader efforts within the UN, he described Egypt as a country with deep experience in peace negotiations and a long-standing commitment to regional stability. He noted that Egypt works actively to keep the Palestinian question central to the UN agenda while resisting attempts to marginalize it. He also underlined the need for strict follow-up mechanisms to ensure implementation of agreements reached at the Sharm El-Sheikh Peace Summit, warning that failure to do so risks further instability in the region. According to him, the UN can support this through regular reporting systems or by forming a specialized monitoring mission.
The ambassador stressed that Egypt’s mission in New York consistently defends the sovereignty of Arab states and opposes any interference in their internal affairs. Referring to countries facing severe challenges, such as Lebanon and Syria, he said Egypt supports national institutions and calls for political processes led by their own citizens without external pressure.
On multilateral diplomacy, he noted that Egypt stands firmly against isolationist tendencies, pointing out that global challenges require collective action. He emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation within the African and Arab groups at the UN and reiterated Egypt’s call for Security Council reform so that the body reflects modern realities.
As one of the world’s largest contributors to UN peacekeeping, Egypt continues to play a central role in stabilizing conflict zones, particularly in Africa. The ambassador said peacekeepers face more risks than ever before, from limited funding to deteriorating security conditions. He called for better resources and equipment to protect personnel who operate under difficult and dangerous circumstances. He added that Egypt’s participation in peacekeeping supports national and regional security, since stability in Africa is vital for Egypt’s own long-term interests.
He explained that Egypt considers peace, security, and development to be inseparable pillars, stressing that sustainable development cannot advance without stability. He pointed to water and food security, climate change impacts, and ongoing conflicts as issues that must be treated as global security concerns. He added that Egypt continues to play an active role in climate negotiations following COP27, promoting climate justice, fair financing, and stronger support for developing nations.
Asked about cyber threats, he said Egypt’s signing of new agreements on cybercrime reflects a commitment to international cooperation and stronger protection for national security. He expects close coordination with the UN on technical support, legal frameworks, and capacity-building programs.
Reflecting on Egypt’s influence in both Africa and the Arab world, he explained that this leadership shapes the mission’s work in New York, adding that Egypt’s approach seeks to link regional stability with national interests. He said that African and Arab priorities give Egypt added weight in shaping international discussions and mobilizing support for developing countries.
On the evolution of multilateral diplomacy, he described the past decade as one marked by sharper divisions but also by a stronger role for regional groupings such as the African Group and the G77 plus China. He said that Egypt responds to this environment by building alliances, maintaining clarity in its positions, and working through quiet but intensive diplomacy behind the scenes.
Looking ahead, he said the UN remains essential for international dialogue despite its limitations. He believes the organization must move toward deep reform, beginning with a more democratic Security Council, streamlined internal systems, and stable funding for humanitarian and development operations.
Asked for a final message, he said the Egyptian state continues to work relentlessly to protect its people and its regional environment. He added that lasting peace in the Middle East depends on justice, stressing that no stability will be possible without ending the occupation and establishing a Palestinian state.
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