Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Egyptian Expatriates Badr Abdel Aaty met with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Manila on Thursday on the sidelines of the ASEAN ministerial meeting. The meeting focused on ways toadvance Egypt–US strategic partnership. The two sides reviewed regional and international developments of mutual concern.
Both ministers stressed the importance of building on the achievements of the long‑standing partnership, enhancing cooperation across political, economic, and investment fields to serve the interests of both nations and support regional stability. Minister Abdel Aaty highlighted Egypt’s investment opportunities saying he looks forward to to convening the second joint economic commission and hosting the next Egypt–US economic forum in Cairo.
The two sides exchanged views on developments in the Middle East, including the Palestinian issue, with Minister Abdel-Attistressing the importance of completing the implementation of the first phase of the U.S. President’s plan and ensuring full and unfettered access for humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, expediting the start of work of the committee on the administration of the Gaza Strip, and the rapid deployment of the international stabilisation force, as well as halting Israeli violations in the West Bank, thereby contributing to containing the escalation and creating an environment conducive to restoring security and stability in the region.
The two ministers discussed the Iranian file, and emphasisedefforts to reduce tensions, uphold the US–Iran memorandum of understanding, and resume negotiations towards a final agreement. They also reviewed developments in the Horn of Africa, with Minister Abdel Aaty stressing the importance of safeguarding security, supporting national institutions, respecting sovereignty, and rejecting destabilising policies.
Regarding the issue of water security, Minister Abdel-Attistressed the importance of adhering to the rules of international law governing the use of transboundary water resources, in a manner that serves the interests of all Nile Basin countries, and of rejecting any unilateral measures.
Both sides expressed their determination to maintain close coordination and consultation, reflecting the strength of the strategic partnership and enhancing their ability to address regional and global challenges. They reaffirmed the importance of joint efforts to support regional and international security and stability in line with shared interests.
