Ahmed Kamel – Egypt Daily News
Egyptian Foreign Minister Dr. Badr Abdel-Aati held extensive talks on October 21 with Hans Grundberg, the United Nations Special Envoy for Yemen, in a meeting that underscored Egypt’s ongoing engagement in efforts to stabilize the region and support a political resolution in Yemen.
According to Ambassador Tammam Khalaf, spokesperson for the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Minister Abdel-Aati reaffirmed Egypt’s steadfast support for Yemen’s unity, territorial integrity, and the independence of its national institutions. He emphasized that Yemen’s security and stability are vital not only for the country itself but also for Egypt’s national security and the broader Red Sea region.
The minister highlighted Egypt’s backing for a comprehensive political solution to the Yemeni crisis, based on the Yemeni National Dialogue, the Gulf Initiative, the Riyadh consultations, and relevant UN Security Council resolutions, including Resolution 2216. He also reviewed Egypt’s humanitarian assistance efforts, which include medical and food aid, hosting over one million Yemeni nationals in Egypt, and providing them with essential services.
A key topic of discussion was the security of maritime navigation in the Red Sea. Minister Abdel-Aati noted that disruptions in the region have had direct implications for Egypt, including a decline in Suez Canal revenues. He stressed the need for a coordinated, comprehensive approach to de-escalation, beginning with an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon, and strong international pressure to achieve a lasting, enforceable resolution in Yemen. He also called on the international community to play an active role in mitigating the humanitarian crisis in Yemen and ensuring funding for UN relief programs.
Regarding the political track, Abdel-Aati emphasized the importance of maintaining Yemen’s national institutions as a safeguard against further instability. He reiterated Egypt’s position that efforts to reduce tensions must be paired with a renewed, inclusive Yemeni dialogue that engages all national actors and leads to a political settlement meeting the aspirations of the Yemeni people. Such a settlement, he noted, is essential to ending the prolonged humanitarian suffering in the country.
UN Special Envoy Hans Grundberg provided an update on his recent diplomatic initiatives and contacts with key Yemeni stakeholders. He expressed his appreciation for Egypt’s balanced and constructive role in supporting de-escalation and emphasized his intent to continue close coordination with Cairo, recognizing Egypt as a pivotal regional actor in promoting security and stability across the Middle East.
The meeting reinforced the shared commitment of Egypt and the United Nations to coordinated efforts aimed at restoring peace, reducing humanitarian suffering, and supporting a viable, long-term political solution in Yemen.
