Egypt’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Egyptian Expatriates Badr Abdel-Aati said Egypt is giving greater priority to its relations with Asian countries.
He stressed the importance of expanding cooperation with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), noting the region’s growing influence in the global economy and international affairs.
Abdel-Aati made these remarks as he delivered a lecture at the University of the Philippines on Thursday. Faculty members, researchers and students attended the event.
The minister outlined the main principles of Egypt’s foreign policy. He also presented Egypt’s views on the latest regional and international developments. In addition, he highlighted Egypt’s efforts to strengthen partnerships with countries around the world, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region.
Abdel-Aati said his visit to Manila and participation in the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting reflect Egypt’s commitment to building stronger ties with Asia.
He added that Cairo is also seeking closer coordination with Asian partners on regional and global issues.
The minister said Egypt’s foreign policy is based on the principle of strategic balance established by President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. He said it promotes respect for international law, supports regional peace and stability, encourages development, and favors political and diplomatic solutions to conflicts while respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states.
Abdel-Aati also reviewed Egypt’s positions on the Palestinian issue and the situations in Sudan and Libya. He stressed that political and diplomatic solutions remain the best way to preserve regional security and stability.
He described Egypt’s water security as an existential issue. He also highlighted the country’s efforts to manage water resources sustainably and strengthen regional and international cooperation.
Turning to Egypt-Philippines relations, Abdelatty welcomed the steady progress in bilateral ties.
He called for expanding cooperation in trade, investment, higher education, capacity building and academic exchange. He said these efforts would help take relations between the two countries to a higher level.
