Brussels: Minister of Foreign Affairs, Emigration and Egyptian Expatriates Badr Abdelatty on Thursday affirmed Egypt's total rejection of Israeli policies of starvation and collective punishment as weapons against the Palestinian people. Abdelatty made these remarks during a meeting with European Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management Hadja Lahbib, occurring on the sidelines of her current visit to Brussels.

According to State Information Service Egypt, the meeting addressed recent developments in the Gaza Strip. Abdelatty emphasized the great importance that Egypt places on resuming an immediate ceasefire and ensuring the unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid. This urgency is in light of the catastrophic humanitarian conditions caused by Israeli intransigence and the complete blockade of aid since last March.

The discussion highlighted the pivotal role played by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) and other humanitarian organizations. These organizations are crucial in delivering relief, shelter, and medical assistance to Palestinians in Gaza, as well as ensuring necessary protection for civilians.

Abdelatty also reviewed Egypt's efforts to host an international conference on early recovery and reconstruction in the coming period. He expressed Egypt's hope to continue coordination with the European Union and international donors to play a key role in the conference.

Meanwhile, the two sides exchanged views on the humanitarian situation in Sudan, with Abdelatty underscoring the importance of intensifying humanitarian support for the country.