Cairo: Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Egyptian Expatriates Badr Abdelatty has asserted that the governance of the Red Sea should be exclusively managed by the littoral states, firmly rejecting any external attempts to become partners in the Red Sea's governance.

According to State Information Service Egypt, this statement was made during a meeting on February 16, 2026, between Foreign Minister Abdelatty and Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, held on the sidelines of the African Union Summit. Minister Abdelatty highlighted ongoing efforts to activate the Council of Arab and African States bordering the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, aiming to enhance cooperation, achieve sustainable development, and consolidate security and stability in the region.

Minister Abdelatty commended the robust cooperation and coordination between Egypt and the African Union Commission and reiterated Egypt's support for the AU's initiatives to resolve conflicts and implement Agenda 2063. He also expressed Egypt's commitment to increasing representation within the African Union Commission to bolster the AU's role and support joint African action.

He emphasized the fundamental nature of water as a human right and the necessity of access to drinking water. Abdelatty noted the adoption of Africa's Water Vision and Policy 2063 at the African Heads of State and Government Summit as a pivotal step in safeguarding this right, stressing adherence to international law and principles, especially concerning shared and transboundary rivers.

Discussing Sudan, the Foreign Minister reaffirmed Egypt's stance on supporting Sudan's unity, territorial integrity, and national institutions, rejecting any division or undermining of its sovereignty. He emphasized the urgency of a comprehensive ceasefire and effective humanitarian efforts, advocating for Sudan's reinstatement in the African Union based on 'African solutions to African problems.'

Minister Abdelatty also voiced support for international efforts to enable the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) to fulfill its mandate effectively, highlighting the impending deployment of Egyptian forces and the need for sustainable funding. He stressed the significance of maintaining Somalia's unity and sovereignty and rejecting parallel entities outside recognized legal frameworks.

Chairperson Youssouf extended his greetings and appreciation to the President of Egypt, commending Egypt's role in promoting security, stability, and development in Africa. He praised Egypt's active presidency of the Peace and Security Council and its continuous support for AU initiatives, expressing a desire for continued close coordination to enhance peace, security, and development efforts across the African continent.