Egypt’s Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukri conveyed his gratitude to all participants in the Egyptian-European Council and those actively involved in fostering ties between the two sides, thereby enhancing the efficacy of Egyptian-European efforts to support the EU-Egypt Association Council.
Speaking during a press conference held on the sidelines of the EU-Egypt Association Council, Shoukri said that the meeting discussed various aspects of bilateral relations, as well as the crises in Europe and the Middle East, particularly the ongoing situation in the Gaza Strip.
Shoukri stressed the importance of a comprehensive dialogue on economic, social, and political dimensions, including issues like migration and other challenges. He also hailed the partnership between Egypt and Europe.
In a related context, FM Shoukri discussed the situation in Gaza with European Council President Charles Michel in Brussels yesterday and cautioned against the prolonged the potential expansion of conflicts. Shoukri expressed concern over the unpredictable consequences that may arise from the continuation of the Gaza crisis. The meeting also touched upon positive developments in Egyptian-EU relations and discussed ways to strengthen the existing partnership.
Minister Shoukri met also with his Cypriot counterpart Constantinos Kombos, who reiterated Cyprus’s unwavering support for enhancing relations between Egypt and the European Union.
In another meeting with President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola, Shoukri stressed the importance of constructive dialogue based on friendship and mutual respect between Cairo and the European Parliament. Discussions revolved around elevating Egypt-EU relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership, as well as the EP’s role in supporting Egypt in facing the economic challenges resulting from regional and international crises.
In a separate engagement with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, Shoukri discussed avenues to deepen joint consultation mechanisms on mutual interests and efforts to launch the Individually Tailored Partnership Programme (ITPP). The meeting highlighted the growing relations between Egypt and NATO and explored opportunities for cooperation in various fields, including capacity-building, expertise sharing, counter-terrorism efforts, and demining.
Stoltenberg commended Egypt’s pivotal role in the region, and its efforts to achieve regional security and stability.
The meeting also addressed regional crises, including war on Gaza, the Palestinian cause, developments in the Horn of Africa, and the Red Sea. Stoltenberg expressed interest in collaborating with Egypt to enhance Africa’s capabilities.
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