Cairo: Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Egyptian Expatriates Badr Abdelatty stated that Egypt is committed to strengthening its strategic partnership with Portugal across all areas, with a focus on political and economic cooperation. This announcement was made on Thursday, September 17, 2026, during a joint news conference with Portuguese Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel at the Foreign Ministry's headquarters in the New Capital.
According to State Information Service Egypt, the visit by the Portuguese delegation underscores the depth of the historic ties between the two nations and their positive development in recent years. Abdelatty emphasized the significance of the talks, especially as Egypt and Portugal celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations. The discussions highlighted the political will of both countries to advance their strategic partnership.
The meeting covered bilateral cooperation, with preparations underway for the second session of the joint committee, scheduled to take place in Lisbon early next year. Abdelatty stressed the importance of this session, where a joint business council and a business forum will be organized to explore economic and trade opportunities. The talks also addressed cooperation in sectors such as petrochemicals, renewable energy, green hydrogen, water resources management, technology localization, and civilian applications of artificial intelligence.
The ministers discussed leveraging the presence of Egyptian and Portuguese companies in Africa to enhance bilateral cooperation. Abdelatty also explored attracting more Portuguese tourists to Egypt, given the diverse tourism options available, from cultural and ecotourism to beach and religious tourism.
Abdelatty congratulated Portugal on its election as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, set to begin in January, and expressed appreciation for Portugal's diplomatic stance, particularly its support for the Palestinian state and international law. The discussion also included regional developments and challenges, with both sides expressing aligned views on these issues.
The Palestinian issue was a key topic, with both ministers agreeing on the importance of implementing the US president's plan. They also addressed the situation in the West Bank and praised European countries' actions against settlement products. Abdelatty highlighted the need for a two-state solution as essential for regional peace and stability.
Discussions also covered the crisis involving Iran and regional conflicts in Libya, Syria, Lebanon, and Sudan. Rangel, the Portuguese foreign minister, emphasized the importance of relations between Egypt and Portugal, citing shared views on the international stage and multilateralism. He expressed gratitude for Egypt's support in the UN Security Council and underscored the role of international law and multilateralism in global peace and security.
Rangel announced plans for an Egyptian-Portuguese Joint Committee and an economic forum in 2027 to strengthen economic relations. He highlighted the cultural exchanges and cooperation between the two nations and the potential benefits of collaboration with African countries. Rangel acknowledged Egypt's strategic position and constructive role in resolving regional conflicts, urging appreciation from the European Union.
The Portuguese Minister reiterated the importance of the two-state solution for Palestine and the strong ties between Portugal and Egypt. His visit aimed to reaffirm these ties and demonstrate solidarity between the two nations and the region.