Interview with Ambassador Ahmed Abu Zeid... Egypt & EU: Strategic Partnership Built on Mutual Respect

This interview with Ambassador Ahmed Abu Zeid, Egypt’s ambassador to Brussels, unveils the robust strategic relationship between Egypt and the European Union. It covers the path of cooperation across multiple fields, including human rights, political reforms, Egypt’s regional role, and Egypt’s stance on the current developments in the Gaza Strip. 

The discussion highlights Egypt’s efforts to present a clear, transparent picture of its national challenges and achievements, aiming to strengthen the partnership with the EU based on understanding and mutual respect.

Egypt’s Position on Human Rights and National Efforts

Ambassador Abu Zeid emphasized that Egypt places human rights at the core of its national strategy. The country is working through institutional efforts and comprehensive monitoring, regularly receiving diverse delegations from the European Parliament and civil society to enhance transparency and provide insights into the political and social realities of the state. This reflects Egypt’s national responsibility towards its citizens, done without any conditions imposed by its European partners.

Political Reforms and Their Relation to EU Partnership

The ambassador clarified that Egypt views political and economic reforms as internal national processes undertaken for the benefit of its people, not as outcomes of external conditions. He stressed that open cooperation exists with the EU through frequent visits by political delegations closely observing these reforms, aiming to enhance institutional and political cooperation within a comprehensive strategic partnership.

Egypt’s Regional Role as an Influential Partner in the Southern Mediterranean

Ambassador Abu Zeid affirmed the EU’s recognition of the intrinsic link between the security and stability of both the southern and northern Mediterranean regions. Egypt plays a pivotal role as a security and strategic partner, offering significant investment opportunities, a skilled workforce, and supply chains that support the European economy. Cooperation extends across education, green transition, and migration, within a multi-level partnership that fosters integration and collaboration.

Egypt’s Stance on the Gaza Crisis and Cooperation with the EU

The ambassador expressed appreciation for the EU’s supportive position on the Palestinian cause and respect for international humanitarian law but noted challenges stemming from differing member state positions within the EU. Egypt is actively encouraging a more effective European stance on the crisis by backing political solutions, overseeing humanitarian aid, and participating in Gaza’s reconstruction and recovery efforts. He emphasized the importance of a ceasefire and resolving the Palestinian issue through the two-state solution initiative supported by the EU.

Ambassador Ahmed Abu Zeid highlighted how both sides of the Egyptian-European partnership embrace constructive dialogue rooted in mutual cooperation and a deep understanding of each other’s political and social specificities, within the framework of national interest and shared stakes in a vital region.