Cairo: Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Egyptian Expatriates Badr Abdelatty emphasized that any security arrangements imposed from outside the region would not be sustainable. He highlighted the importance for regional countries to have a significant role in shaping the vision for regional security systems.

According to State Information Service Egypt, Abdelatty made these remarks in response to a question from the Middle East News Agency (MENA) regarding the escalating conflict in the Gulf region and Yemen, and the potential for Egypt to contribute new ideas to help end the ongoing violence. His comments came during a joint press conference with Portuguese Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel.

Abdelatty underscored that future security arrangements in the region cannot be sustainable without addressing the Palestinian cause. He also mentioned his discussions with the Portuguese counterpart about strategic corridors and Egypt's critical role as a regional hub for trade, especially through the Suez Canal, which facilitates around 12 percent of global trade.

The Egyptian Foreign Minister reiterated the fundamental principle of ensuring freedom of navigation, in line with international law, stating that no state has the right to obstruct this freedom. This issue was also discussed during Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's visit, focusing on the Strait of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb.

Regarding security arrangements, Abdelatty outlined Egypt's vision for a regional security structure that includes all countries, contingent on their acceptance of principles agreed upon within the Arab League and a ministerial resolution from September 2024. These principles include a just resolution to the Palestinian issue, respect for international law, and rejection of militias and forceful dispute resolutions.

He further noted that Egypt is actively engaging in dialogue with Gulf and Arab nations, as well as with the quartet comprising Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkey. Additionally, discussions with Iran focus on respecting international law and fostering good-neighbor relations to build an inclusive regional security framework.

Abdelatty concluded that sustainable regional security arrangements require peaceful conflict resolutions and adherence to international law principles, without which security and stability in the region cannot be achieved.