Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Co-operation and Egyptian Expatriates Badr Abdel-Aati received on Tuesday a delegation from the European Parliament’s Subcommittee on Human Rights (DROI), headed by Committee Chairman Mounir Satouri, to discuss human rights issues and ways to strengthen parliamentary co-operation between Egypt and the European Union (EU).
Minister Abdel-Aati welcomed the European Parliament delegation, stressing that the visit reflects the close co-operation between Egypt and European institutions. He highlighted the importance of maintaining dialogue with European parliamentary circles, particularly amid the growing momentum in Egypt-EU relations following the elevation of ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership.
During the meeting, Minister Abdel-Aati reviewed Egypt’s efforts to develop a comprehensive human rights framework aimed at enhancing citizens’ rights and advancing social justice, in line with the directives of President Abdel Fattah El Sisi.
He highlighted steps taken to prepare Egypt’s second five-year National Human Rights Strategy for the 2026-2031 period, aiming to consolidate the values of democracy, citizenship and the rule of law.
The minister also reviewed the role of the Supreme Permanent Committee for Human Rights, highlighting its achievements in advancing civil and political rights, as well as legislative reforms.
The minister also reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment to maintaining constructive dialogue with all global partners, including civil society organisations and international partners, particularly the United Nations and the EU.
He added that improving human rights conditions is an ongoing and cumulative process that requires balancing various categories of rights, including civil and political rights alongside economic, social and cultural rights. He also underlined the importance of protecting the rights of women, children, the young people, the elderly and persons with disabilities.
The minister pointed to Egypt’s active engagement with regional and international human rights mechanisms through submitting national reports, including its participation in the Universal Periodic Review process at the UN Human Rights Council. He also highlighted Egypt’s active role as a member of the Human Rights Council in Geneva for the 2026-2028 term.
The top Egyptian diplomat reviewed several national initiatives aimed at promoting economic and social rights, including the presidential Decent Life (Hayah Karima) initiative, the 100 Million Health initiative, the expansion of social protection programmes and efforts to upgrade informal settlements.
For its part, the European Parliament delegation praised the development of strategic relations between Egypt and the EU, describing Egypt as a key partner in supporting regional stability.
