Egyptian Minister of Foreign Affairs Sameh Shoukry said Friday that Egypt’s participation in any international coalition aims to protect Arab national security.
In an interview with the state-owned newspaper Al-Ahram, Shoukry said the Egyptian contribution to the international coalition against terrorism is limited to support and information exchange for the sake of fighting extremism.
Egypt is participating in the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen that began nine months ago.
The minister added that the idea of creating a united Arab force is still being discussed by Arab nations.
“We are convinced by it, but this does not block our participation in other coalitions if they meet Arab or Egyptian national security requirements,” Shoukry said.
Saudi Arabia announced in December the formation of an Islamic coalition against terrorism comprised of Arab and Islamic countries.
Shoukry said the aim of this initiative is only counter-terrorism, whereas the objective of the Arab forces is broader.
Arab countries agreed in March 2015 on Egypt’s suggestion to establish a united Arab force in order to protect Arab national security.
There is substantial turmoil, strife, and conflict across the Middle East in countries such as Syria, Libya, and Yemen.
