Cairo, Egypt – As part of intensive Egyptian diplomatic efforts aimed at preventing the region from sliding into a full-blown regional confrontation, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdel-Aty held a telephone conversation with EU Commissioner for External Relations and Security Policy Kaja Kallas. The call addressed the escalating tensions between the United States and Iran, as well as prospects for strengthening the strategic partnership between Cairo and Brussels. During the call, Minister Abdel-Aty stressed the importance of creating a conducive environment for diplomatic solutions. He also emphasized the necessity of resuming dialogue between Washington and Tehran on the nuclear issue, leading to a comprehensive settlement that contributes to regional security and stability. He further noted the efforts Egypt has been undertaking in coordination with Qatar and Oman in recent hours to de-escalate the situation. He asserted that continued tension serves the interests of none of the parties involved.
The talks also addressed developments in the Gaza Strip, with Minister Abdel-Aati outlining Egypt’s vision for the next phase. This vision is based on transitioning from a ceasefire to reconstruction. It also relies on supporting a transitional committee to temporarily manage the affairs of the Strip in preparation for the return of the Palestinian Authority. Furthermore, it includes pushing for the deployment of an international force to monitor the ceasefire and ensure a complete Israeli withdrawal. The importance of securing the flow of humanitarian aid was also emphasized as a fundamental prerequisite for launching a comprehensive reconstruction process.
On the economic front, Foreign Ministry spokesman Tamim Khallaf explained that the call addressed ways to implement the outcomes of the Egyptian-European summit held last October. It also discussed strengthening development cooperation between the two sides, particularly regarding attracting European investments. The call further addressed facilitating Egyptian exports’ access to international markets and expanding the private sector’s role in joint development projects.
For her part, EU Commissioner for External Relations and Security Policy Kaja Kallas expressed her appreciation for Egypt’s pivotal role in supporting stability in the Middle East. She affirmed the EU’s commitment to continuing close coordination with Cairo to address regional challenges and strengthen the strategic partnership between the two sides.
