Egypt Daily News – Egyptian Foreign Minister and Minister of Immigration Badr Abdel Aaty met on Monday with High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas on the sidelines of the fifth EU-Southern Neighbourhood Ministerial Meeting in Brussels.
During the meeting, both sides reviewed bilateral relations between Egypt and the European Union and discussed key regional developments. Abdel Aaty praised the strategic partnership between Egypt and the EU and presented Cairo’s vision for enhancing regional cooperation, particularly within the framework of the proposed Mediterranean Charter that the EU is planning to launch by the end of the year.
The Egyptian minister extended his appreciation to the EU for its support, particularly in light of the European Parliament and Council’s recent approval of the second tranche of macro-financial assistance to Egypt, amounting to €4 billion.
Abdel Aaty also discussed Egypt’s efforts to broker a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and the ongoing communications aimed at resolving sticking points in the negotiations. He emphasized the urgent need to halt Israeli attacks, end the blockade on civilians, and stop the use of starvation as a method of warfare.
He called for unimpeded humanitarian and relief access to Gaza and stressed Israel’s responsibility as the occupying power under international law. He reaffirmed Egypt’s categorical rejection of any attempts to displace Palestinians from their land.
Looking ahead, Abdel Aaty announced Egypt’s intention to host an international conference on early recovery and reconstruction in Gaza immediately after a ceasefire is declared. He expressed hope for broad European participation in the event.
The meeting also touched on the situation in Libya. Abdel Aaty underscored Egypt’s support for Libya’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and rejection of foreign interference. He called for a unified and legitimate executive authority in Libya that reflects national consensus and is acceptable to the Libyan people, in line with relevant UN resolutions, particularly those calling for the withdrawal of all foreign forces and mercenaries.
On Syria, Abdel Aaty emphasized the importance of preserving Syria’s unity and stability and adopting a comprehensive approach that includes all components of the Syrian people and national forces. He reiterated that Syria should be a source of stability in the region.
The discussions further addressed the ongoing crisis in Sudan. The minister reaffirmed Egypt’s consistent position in support of Sudan’s unity, security, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. He stressed the importance of maintaining and supporting Sudanese national institutions and reiterated Egypt’s commitment to constructively engaging with all regional and international efforts aimed at achieving a ceasefire and alleviating humanitarian suffering in Sudan.
Abdel Aaty also reaffirmed Egypt’s unwavering support for Somalia’s stability, unity, and sovereignty. He commended the Somali government’s efforts to restore security, promote good governance, and strengthen state institutions across the country. Egypt, he noted, stands in full solidarity with the Somali government and people, including through capacity-building support for Somali national institutions.
