Egypt’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Sameh Shoukry held discussions over the phone with his French counterpart Jean-Yves Le Drian, on Sunday, covering several issues of regional significance, including the Libyan crisis.
During the discussions, the two ministers also covered the situation in Palestine and Lebanon, according to a statement by Egypt’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Ahmed Hafez.
The two ministers reviewed the latest updates on the Palestinian Cause, as both sides stressed the need to commit to the two-state solution that has long been a source of contention in the region.
The two sides also agreed to keep working towards a fair and comprehensive peace settlement for the Palestinian people. Under the premise that this would occur in accordance with international law, the move will ensure that security and stability in the Middle East is achieved, Hafez noted in the statement.
Regarding the Libyan issue, both Shoukry and Le Drian welcomed the nationwide ceasefire in Libya that has been agreed upon by the two warring factions in the country. The two ministers noted that the ceasefire is an important step along the road to achieving a political settlement of the Libyan crisis.
Moreover, the two sides also stressed the importance of combating terrorist groups and foreign intervention in Libya, which have been a cause for international concern.
Hafez added that the two ministers also discussed updates regarding the situation in Lebanon, and ways of contributing help to the country as it faces severe tensions. This would be undertaken to secure the future of Lebanon.
For his part, Shoukry reaffirmed Egypt’s support for the Lebanese people. He also noted Egypt’s readiness to assist in meeting its neighbouring country’s needs following the large explosion that hit the Lebanese capital, Beirut, on 4 August and killed at least 170 people and injured more than 6,000.
