Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi met on Sunday with Dubravka Šuica, the European Commissioner for the Mediterranean, to discuss key regional developments, particularly the situation in the Gaza Strip. The meeting was attended by Badr Abdelatty, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Migration, and Egyptian Expatriates Affairs.
Discussions focused on the latest Middle East developments, emphasizing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, efforts to facilitate a ceasefire, the exchange of hostages and detainees, and the delivery of humanitarian aid. President Al-Sisi reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment to supporting reconstruction efforts in Gaza while ensuring that no forced displacement of Palestinians occurs. The European official praised Egypt’s pivotal role in mediating peace efforts and providing humanitarian support to the Strip.
Additionally, the meeting addressed cooperation on migration, stressing the importance of a comprehensive approach that links migration and development. Both sides underscored the need to enhance legal migration pathways while tackling the root causes of irregular migration through economic and social development initiatives.
Presidential spokesperson Mohamed El-Shennawy highlighted that President Al-Sisi welcomed the establishment of the European Commissioner for the Mediterranean, describing it as a significant step toward strengthening EU-Mediterranean relations. He also emphasized the growing momentum in Egypt-EU relations, especially following the upgrade of their ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership in March 2024. Al-Sisi called for increased joint efforts to implement key aspects of this partnership.
The discussions extended to other regional crises, including Libya, Sudan, and Syria, where both sides stressed the need for concerted international efforts to restore stability and protect civilians in these conflict-affected nations.
Šuica reaffirmed the European Union’s appreciation of Egypt’s stabilizing role in the region, underscoring its commitment to supporting Egyptian-led peace initiatives. She also emphasized the importance of expanding trade and investment cooperation between Egypt and the EU to match the political momentum in their bilateral relations.
