Brussels: The European Parliament on Wednesday approved the final reading of a decision to grant Egypt the second tranche of a macro-financial assistance package worth 4 billion euros.

According to State Information Service Egypt, the decision was passed with a majority of 386 members out of 567 present voting in favor. The strong majority reflects broad support across political groups for the strategic and comprehensive partnership with Egypt, as well as recognition for Egypt's role in promoting stability in the EU's southern neighborhood.

Egypt's Ambassador to the EU, Ahmed Abu Zeid, stated that the vote followed nearly nine months of intensive deliberations within the committees on international trade, foreign affairs, and budget. It also came after continuous engagement by Egyptian officials with MEPs and political group leaders to highlight key aspects of the Egypt-EU relationship.

He mentioned that the discussions covered the six pillars of the strategic partnership, Egypt's efforts to support peace and stability in the Middle East and Africa, and the shared interests underpinning the bilateral partnership. The European Council is expected to vote on the decision in the coming days, paving the way for disbursement of the second tranche. The funding is intended to strengthen Egypt's economic resilience amid international and regional challenges and to support the government's development and economic programs.