Egyptian Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Co-operation and Egyptian Expatriates Badr Abdelatty stressed the importance of ensuring freedom of navigation in the Black Sea, given its implications for the stability of grain supply chains essential to food security in Egypt and African countries.
Abdelatty made the remarks during a meeting with his Ukrainian counterpart Andrii Sybiha, on Tuesday, on the sidelines of the G7 ministerial meeting in Paris.
The two ministers expressed their keenness to advance bilateral relations, particularly in the economic and trade sectors, as well as food security and energy, in a way that serves the shared interests of both countries, Foreign Ministry Spokesman Nader Zaki said.
Abdelatty also expressed Egypt’s interest in hosting a global centre for grain storage, supply and trade, which would help strengthen global food security and safeguard related supply chains.
He outlined Egypt’s qualifications for undertaking this role, including its strategic geographic location, advanced infrastructure and logistics capabilities, and links to international trade and transport corridors.
Regarding the Ukraine crisis, Abdelatty reiterated Egypt’s support for reaching a political and peaceful settlement through diplomatic channels, stressing the importance of prioritising dialogue.
He also highlighted the importance of the ongoing Abu Dhabi negotiations as an opportunity to advance efforts to resolve the crisis.
