Cairo: Minister of Foreign Affairs, Emigration, and Egyptian Expatriates Badr Abdelatty emphasized the significant progress in strengthening relations between Egypt and the European Union during a joint press conference with Hadja Lahbib, European Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness and Crisis Management. Abdelatty praised the strategic partnership between Egypt and the EU, welcoming the European official and her delegation during their visit to Egypt.

According to State Information Service Egypt, Abdelatty described the discussions with the European Commissioner as constructive, highlighting the special nature of the relations that have been elevated to a comprehensive and strategic partnership. He referred to the first summit between Egypt and the EU held recently in Brussels with President Abdel Fattah El Sisi. The Foreign Minister discussed various issues, particularly humanitarian crises in regions such as Gaza, Sudan, and Syria, stressing Egypt's burden due to regional geopolitical crises.

Abdelatty underscored the shared challenge of irregular migration between Egypt and Europe, advocating for a comprehensive approach to address its root causes. He noted Egypt's role in preventing illegal migrant boats from departing its ports since September 2016 and emphasized the importance of legal migration pathways. The Minister also highlighted Egypt's hosting of over 10 million refugees, calling for cooperation with the European Union to alleviate these responsibilities.

The tragic situation in Sudan was a focal point of the discussions with Commissioner Lahbib, with Abdelatty outlining Egypt's efforts to end the ongoing war and preserve Sudan's national institutions. He stressed the need to establish safe shelters in Darfur and facilitate humanitarian aid, condemning atrocities in Fasher. The European Commissioner echoed these concerns, stressing the importance of delivering relief through the Rafah Crossing and condemning the actions of the Rapid Support Forces in Fasher.

Lahbib highlighted Egypt's efforts since the Sudanese crisis began, acknowledging Egypt's support for refugees, particularly Sudanese women and children. She emphasized the reliance of both Egypt and the EU on each other to deliver humanitarian aid. Addressing US President Donald Trump's involvement, Abdelatty welcomed the direct engagement in the Sudanese crisis, expressing hope for renewed international attention to facilitate a ceasefire and political dialogue.

The Foreign Minister lamented the crisis being dubbed the "forgotten crisis" and expressed hope that international involvement would lead to responsibility being taken to halt crimes against civilians and enable a humanitarian ceasefire and political process.