Egypt’s Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry emphasized on Tuesday23/1/2024 that the anticipated elevation of the European Union’s relations with Egypt to a comprehensive strategic partnership reflects the recognition of the country’s role as a stabilizing force in a region marked by profound turbulence.
It also recognizes President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi’s leadership and the reliability of Egypt as a partner, Shoukry added.
Shoukry made these comments during an exclusive interview with the Egyptian press delegation in Brussels, sharing insights from his discussions with twenty European foreign ministers.
The FM met with his European counterparts on the sidelines of the 10th meeting of the EU-Egypt Association Council.
Shoukry co-chaired the meeting along with Josep Borrell, high representative of the European Union for foreign affairs and security policy and vice president of the European Commission.
During the meetings, Shoukry addressed developments in the Gaza Strip, emphasizing the consequences of the war,
including the current crisis in the Red Sea, which has contributed to rising prices.
European diplomats expressed significant appreciation for Egypt’s actions during the war from facilitating the exit of European dual-nationals from Gaza to consistently seeking solutions.
Shoukry elucidated Egypt’s current economic situation and the challenges it has faced, including the impact of global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the situation in Ukraine.
The FM also highlighted Egypt’s vision on bilateral relations, underscoring the significant progress that has been achieved and the numerous opportunities for future collaboration.
European ministers expressed satisfaction with the trajectory of relations, particularly acknowledging the priorities set from 2021 to 2027.
Negotiations are underway for the second part of these priorities, spanning 2024 to 2027.
He commended the roles played by Egypt’s diplomats in shepherding the relationship, including Ambassador to Belgium and the EU Badr Abdel-Aati, and
Omar Abu Al-Ish, head of the national body for implementing the association agreement.
Regional positions
Shoukry reaffirmed Egypt’s position on Gaza, explaining it to the Europeans and getting several countries to alter their stances in the UN Security Council in favour of aid entry.
Shoukry also acknowledged European efforts to resolve the crisis, emphasizing the comprehensive approach presented by Borrell that not only focuses on the peace process but the implementation of the two-state solution on the ground.
Addressing the American stance and some European countries’ positions on Gaza, Shoukry emphasized the importance of considering multiple perspectives and interests.
He cautioned against Israel’s continued presence in Gaza or attempts to control the Palestinian side of the Rafah border, which would only deepen the occupation.
Regarding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, Shoukry presented Egypt’s position to the EU, affirming Egypt’s commitment to taking all necessary measures to protect its wa
ter rights if its security is compromised.
He revealed Egypt’s willingness to sign any agreement formulated by the World Bank immediately, emphasizing that Egypt is open to any system for dam management, similar to the Danube in Europe or even the Senegal River in Africa.
However, he pointed out that Ethiopia remains obstinate and has rejected all proposals.
Shoukry concluded by reaffirming Egypt’s rejection of the agreement between the Ethiopian government and the Somaliland government to provide an outlet for Ethiopia on the Red Sea. Egypt supports Somalia’s position in this matter.
Source: State Information Service Egypt