Egypt's Foreign Minister (FM) Sameh Shoukry confirmed that Egypt is a pivotal Arab country, stressing that it is doing its best in order to preserve the successes achieved during the past period.
Addressing the parliament plenary session, Shoukry added that the ministry is working to implement the state’s vision to defend interests and efforts in a way that guarantees protection and preservation of national security, confronting terrorism, and achieving sustainable development.
"Egypt is keen to solve the conflicts in the region peacefully," FM stressed.
Moreover, Shoukry stressed that the risks have multiplied and the challenges have escalated in the region, thus placing double burdens on the ministry.
The top diplomat also pointed out that parliamentary diplomacy has an important role in international relations, stressing that the ministry seeks to strengthen parliamentary diplomacy in coordination with the House of Representatives (HoR).
Palestinian cause
Shoukry affirmed that the Egyptian policy pursues a moderate path that raises the value of coexistence and achieves the compatibility of Egyptian interests in light of the moral system dictated by our civilization.
He went on to say that despite signing a peace agreement with Israel, the Palestinian cause remained at the top of Egypt's agenda.
Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD)
Shoukry added that securing Egypt's water interests and preserving its rights tops priorities of the foreign affairs ministry, and all Egyptian national security institutions, which have been working diligently to defend the only source of life for Egyptians, in reference to 'the Nile'.
"It is not an exaggeration to describe the Nile water file as the most important issue on the Egyptian foreign policy agenda," he said.
Regarding Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), Shoukry affirmed that Egypt seeks to reach a fair and balanced agreement that meets the interests of Egypt, Sudan, and Ethiopia.
"Reaching a binding agreement is necessary," FM noted, adding that Ethiopia is acting unilaterally and intransigently.
He added that Egypt will not accept to be dragged into prolonging negotiations and endeavors to impose a fait accompli policy.
"We are working in all directions to preserve Egypt's historic water rights and cooperate with everyone," Shoukry continued.
He explained that "Egypt signed the US mediator's draft, while Ethiopia refused to sign it. Egypt participates in all meetings related to this vital file, but we are faced with obstinacy, therefore I announce it explicitly; No one can prejudice Egypt's Nile water quota."
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