Paris:Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Egyptian Expatriates, Badr Abdelatty, emphasized the critical role of food security in maintaining international peace and stability during a G7 ministerial meeting. He highlighted the impact of conflicts, geopolitical tensions, climate change, and disruptions to global supply chains on rising food prices, which are particularly affecting developing countries.

According to State Information Service Egypt, Abdelatty, addressing a session on food security under the theme "Stability in the Middle East," outlined Egypt's efforts to bolster food security. These efforts include increasing agricultural production, diversifying import sources, and enhancing storage and distribution systems. The session, held in Paris, brought together foreign ministers from G7 countries and other international representatives.

Abdelatty underscored the urgency of political solutions and diplomacy in resolving regional conflicts, dismissing military approaches. He pointed to humanitarian challenges in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, highlighting Israel's restrictions on aid and the violence affecting the region. He stressed the importance of ensuring the regular flow of food and agricultural inputs while maintaining open maritime routes, rejecting the use of food as a political tool in conflicts.

Further, Abdelatty announced Egypt's hosting of the UNCCD COP18 in 2028, which aims to enhance global cooperation in combating desertification and promoting sustainable land and water management. He also called for financial support for developing countries to manage climate change impacts without increasing their debt burdens.

Addressing the food security challenges in Africa and the Arab region, exacerbated by conflicts and water scarcity, Abdelatty advocated for unhindered humanitarian aid access and efforts to restore local production capacities. He highlighted Egypt's strategic assets, such as its infrastructure and logistics capabilities, to support regional and global food distribution.