FM Discusses Egypt-EU Bilateral Ties with EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs & Security Policy

On Friday, Dr. Badr Abdelatty, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Immigration, and Egyptian Expatriates, discussed the bilateral partnership between Egypt and the European Union with Kaja Kallas, the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.

The call also included discussing the major regional and international developments of mutual concern.

Ambassador Tamim Khallaf, the official spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated that the call also addressed the first Egypt–EU Summit, held on October 22, which reflected an unprecedented development in the bilateral partnership. 

Moreover, the Minister of Foreign Affairs praised the efforts of the High Representative and the European External Action Service in strengthening bilateral relations and consolidating the strategic partnership between Egypt and the EU. 

He also stressed the importance of building on the outcomes of the summit and working to implement the memoranda of understanding signed in various fields. 

In her side, the High Representative agreed with this view, highlighting Egypt’s importance as a key partner to the European Union and commending the pivotal role played by Egypt and its President in supporting security and stability in the region. 

In the same context, the Minister expressed his anticipation for holding the second summit in Egypt.

Regarding developments in the Gaza Strip, the Minister briefed the European official on Egypt’s efforts to uphold the Sharm El-Sheikh peace agreement, stressing the importance of full implementation of its provisions. 

He emphasized the need to move to the second phase of the U.S. President’s plan, which includes political, developmental, and humanitarian dimensions, as well as initiating early recovery and reconstruction, and ensuring the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza in quantities that meet the needs of its population. 

He also outlined Egypt’s preparations to host the International Conference on Early Recovery and Reconstruction of Gaza in November, expressing the hope that EU member states will participate effectively. 

The call also covered ongoing consultations in New York regarding the issuance of a UN Security Council resolution welcoming the U.S. President’s peace plan, establishing a Peace Council, deploying an international force, and forming a Palestinian administrative committee.

The call furthermore addressed developments in Sudan, with both sides agreeing that there is no military solution to the crisis. They highlighted the importance of implementing the statement issued by the Quartet on September 12, preserving Sudan’s unity, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national institutions. 

Both parties condemned the grave violations that occurred in El Fasher in recent weeks and stressed the need for the international community to act to end these serious abuses. 

They expressed deep concern over the catastrophic deterioration of the humanitarian situation and emphasized the need to intensify efforts to achieve a humanitarian ceasefire across Sudan and pave the way for a comprehensive political process, as well as increasing humanitarian aid and ensuring its access throughout the country. The Minister outlined Egypt’s ongoing efforts within the framework of the Quartet mechanism to support de-escalation and reach a comprehensive ceasefire.

The two sides also exchanged views on efforts to promote peace and sustainable development in Africa, particularly in the Sahel region. The Minister reviewed Egypt’s initiatives to enhance economic and developmental cooperation among African states, underscoring Egypt’s full support for efforts aimed at strengthening the security and stability of its brotherly African nations. 

He highlighted Egypt’s extensive experience and capabilities in post-conflict reconstruction and development, including its hosting of the African Union Center for Post-Conflict Reconstruction and Development, as well as the programs provided by the Cairo International Center for Conflict Resolution, Peacekeeping, and Peacebuilding.