Egypt and the European Union held their first Security and Defence Dialogue in Cairo on Tuesday. The dialogue was agreed at the EU‑Egypt Leaders’ Summit in October 2025 and reflects the strategic comprehensive partnership launched in March 2024.
Delegations exchanged views on the war in Iran and regional de‑escalation efforts, as well as developments in Lebanon, Gaza, Sudan, and Ukraine. They also discussed situations in Syria, Libya, the Horn of Africa, the Red Sea, and Yemen. Both sides explored cooperation in training Palestinian police for deployment in Gaza, aligned with the US‑led Comprehensive Plan and UN Security Council Resolution 2803.
Talks covered maritime security, freedom of navigation under international law, water security, counter‑terrorism, cyber security, non‑proliferation, and disarmament. The EU’s support through the European Peace Facility and defence initiatives was also highlighted, with opportunities for deeper collaboration identified.
Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to long‑term stability, peace, and a rules‑based multilateral order, stressing respect for international law, the UN Charter, and humanitarian principles.
The dialogue will be held regularly, alternating between Cairo and Brussels. The meeting was co‑chaired by Ambassador Wael Hamed, Egypt’s Assistant Foreign Minister for European Affairs, and Charles Fries, Deputy Secretary General of the European External Action Service for Peace, Security and Defence.
