Ahmed Kamel – Egypt Daily News
In a clear message of solidarity and regional cooperation, Egypt’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Emigration, and Expatriates, Dr. Badr Abdel Aty, met with Sudanese Sovereign Council Chairman General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan on Wednesday during an official visit to Port Sudan. This marks Abdel Aty’s third visit to the city within a year—a gesture that underscores Egypt’s enduring commitment to Sudan amid the country’s ongoing political and humanitarian crisis.
During the high-level meeting, Abdel Aty conveyed warm greetings from Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi to General Al-Burhan. He emphasized that his repeated visits serve not only as a reflection of the deep-rooted historical ties between Egypt and Sudan but also as a firm expression of Cairo’s unwavering support for Sudan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national institutions.
According to Foreign Ministry spokesperson Ambassador Tamim Khallaf, Minister Abdel Aty reiterated Egypt’s full solidarity with the Sudanese people and affirmed Cairo’s dedication to supporting stability, security, and unity in the country. “Egypt will continue to play an active role in backing efforts to achieve a lasting ceasefire and facilitate humanitarian access,” he said. Abdel Aty also expressed grave concern over the ongoing suffering of Sudanese civilians, calling for urgent regional and international action to alleviate the humanitarian crisis.
The discussions also explored avenues for expanding bilateral cooperation, particularly in the economic and commercial spheres. Abdel Aty welcomed the upcoming convening of the Egypt-Sudan Business Forum later this year, along with the Egyptian-Sudanese Joint Trade Committee meetings set to take place in Cairo. These initiatives are expected to deepen economic ties and stimulate cross-border trade, especially at a time when Sudan’s economy remains under significant strain.
Another key issue on the agenda was the Nile River and shared water security concerns. Both sides reiterated their countries’ unified stance as downstream nations and called for strict adherence to international law governing transboundary watercourses, particularly in the Eastern Nile Basin. The Egyptian minister strongly opposed any unilateral actions that could affect the flow of Nile waters, a veiled reference to the ongoing tensions surrounding Ethiopia’s Grand Renaissance Dam project.
Abdel Aty also highlighted Egypt’s ongoing efforts to support Sudanese nationals who have sought refuge across the border due to the civil conflict. He outlined measures Egypt has taken to accommodate displaced Sudanese citizens and emphasized Cairo’s commitment to facilitating the voluntary and dignified return of Sudanese refugees once conditions in Sudan stabilize.
General Al-Burhan, for his part, expressed deep appreciation for Egypt’s principled and consistent support during Sudan’s time of need. He extended his personal greetings to President El-Sisi and lauded the “brotherly and historical” relations between the two neighboring countries. Al-Burhan also welcomed Egypt’s constructive role in regional diplomacy and reiterated his commitment to preserving strong bilateral ties.
The meeting in Port Sudan comes as the country continues to grapple with widespread instability, a humanitarian crisis, and a stalled political transition, following a protracted conflict between the military and paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Egypt has emerged as a key regional stakeholder in mediation efforts, advocating for a peaceful resolution through African and Arab-led diplomatic channels.
As the two nations navigate the challenges ahead, the visit signaled a renewed commitment to partnership, cooperation, and mutual respect foundations that both Cairo and Khartoum appear determined to uphold.
