Cairo, Egypt – Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdel-Aty received US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau today in a meeting that addressed ways to strengthen the strategic partnership between Egypt and the United States, and prospects for developing bilateral relations in the political and economic spheres. The two sides also discussed a number of regional issues of mutual interest. Both sides commended the depth of the strategic partnership between the two countries and the existing cooperation in the political, economic, and military fields. They also praised the coordination on various regional issues.
The meeting included discussions on the economic aspect, with Minister Abdel-Aty expressing Egypt’s aspiration to hold the second Egyptian-American Economic Forum during the first half of this year. This aims to attract more American investments and expand cooperation in priority sectors. The meeting also addressed the latest developments in the Gaza Strip, with Abdel-Aty welcoming Egypt’s accession to the Peace Council. He also commended the prominent role of the US President in reaching the Sharm El-Sheikh Agreement.
The Egyptian Foreign Minister emphasized the importance of moving forward with the implementation of the second phase of the US President’s plan and supporting the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza. He also stressed the need for the swift deployment of the international stabilization force to monitor the ceasefire and the opening of the Rafah crossing in both directions. He explained the importance of achieving an Israeli withdrawal from the Strip, which would pave the way for early recovery and reconstruction according to the needs of the Palestinians. Furthermore, he emphasized the necessity of ensuring the continued flow of humanitarian aid.
Regarding Sudan, the Foreign Minister stressed the importance of reaching a humanitarian truce and establishing safe havens and corridors as a prelude to a comprehensive ceasefire. He also emphasized the necessity of launching a comprehensive, Sudanese-owned political process, reaffirming Egypt’s support for Sudan’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity. The meeting also addressed the situation in the Horn of Africa, with the Foreign Minister stressing that any recognition of the so-called “Somaliland” violates international law and infringes upon Somali sovereignty. He further noted that it undermines the stability of the region and the Red Sea.
On the issue of water security, Minister Abdel-Aty expressed his appreciation for President Donald Trump’s message and his efforts to promote peace and stability regionally and internationally. He emphasized that the Nile River is a lifeline for the Egyptian people and that Egypt is committed to constructive cooperation with the Nile Basin countries in accordance with the principles of international law. He also reiterated Egypt’s rejection of unilateral actions. For his part, the US Deputy Secretary of State commended the strong relations with Egypt and the mutual benefits achieved through the strategic partnership. He also praised Egypt’s efforts to support security and stability in the region.
