MADRID – Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry praised Spain’s supportive stance on the Palestinian cause, particularly after its recognition of the State of Palestine.
During a joint press conference with his Spanish counterpart José Manuel Albares, Shoukry expressed his hope for a resolution to the Palestinian issue based on the two-state solution, establishing a Palestinian state along the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.
He noted that his discussions with the Spanish foreign minister also touched on bilateral relations between the two countries. He commended the development of these relations, ongoing coordination, and the desire to strengthen them politically, culturally, and economically.
Minister Shoukry stated, “We will continue to find suitable opportunities to fully benefit from our relations, especially considering the increased trade exchange between our countries and the significant involvement of Spanish companies in Egypt’s development efforts over the past years.”
He added, “We look forward to intensifying this cooperation with the support of the Spanish government, providing guarantees for Spanish companies, and encouraging them to explore available opportunities to establish mutual interests between our countries.”
Regarding Mediterranean issues and the handling of illegal migration, Shoukry explained that Egypt is working to prevent this phenomenon, hosting about 9 million migrants and bearing the burden out of a sense of responsibility. He called for more cooperation at the bilateral level and within the framework of the European Union.
Shoukry continued, “We have elevated the relationship between Egypt and the European Union to a comprehensive strategic partnership with full support from Spain. We always look forward to Spain’s continued supportive positions in developing this relationship with the EU, given Spain’s understanding of the issues we deal with in the region and the pressures we face.”
Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry said Egypt issued a joint statement with US and Qatar as the three countries sponsoring ongoing negotiations for a ceasefire in Gaza, entry of humanitarian assistance, banning the displacement of the Palestinian people and liquidation of the Palestinian cause.
The foreign minister added the current proposal is worthy of
acceptance, which calls for a ceasefire and stopping continuing damages and killing of the Palestinian people in Gaza.
During a joint press conference with his Spanish counterpart José Manuel Albares, Shoukry said the joint statement includes many items; a full ceasefire, return of hostages and the entry of assistance with amounts needed by the Palestinians.
He pointed out the released statement is encouraging both sides, namely Israel and Hamas to accept the plan.
He said initial statements made by Hamas stress it positively received the plan and we are awaiting a response from Israel.
“We continue communicating and coordinating with partners, including US and Qatar or with our European partners to encourage the two sides to accept this plan.”
Shoukry said the continuation of war in Gaza is rejected as it is having very serious consequences.
He said that 37,000 Palestinians were killed, including women and children and nearly 100,000 Palestinians were wounded.
Shoukry added that we will continue with the truce and we are looking forward that the two parties interact to implement the whole plan.
As for the Israeli military presence in Gaza, the foreign minister said such a proposal is refused not only by Egypt, but also by the majority of members of the international community.
