Cairo: Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Egyptian Expatriates Badr Abdelatty on Thursday held a phone conversation with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to discuss the latest regional developments and explore ways to further strengthen the strategic partnership between Egypt and the United States.
According to State Information Service Egypt, the two sides exchanged views on the latest developments in the region, particularly in light of the ongoing military escalation and the expanding scope of regional conflicts.
The conversation also addressed a number of key regional issues, including the Palestinian situation, the crisis in Sudan, developments in Lebanon, and Egypt’s water security concerns. Spokesman for the Foreign Ministry Tamim Khallaf said that they reviewed ties between the two countries.
Both sides acknowledged the deep and enduring strategic partnership between Egypt and the US, which spans over four decades. They expressed their mutual interest in further developing these ties to enhance cooperation for the benefit of both nations and contribute to regional security and stability.
They also discussed the impact of the escalating military situation on the global economy and its potential consequences for Egypt’s economic outlook. Abdelatty stressed the need for economic support and liquidity to mitigate the negative repercussions, particularly with rising energy and food prices and the downturn in tourism and Suez Canal revenues.
He reiterated Egypt’s firm commitment to promoting diplomatic solutions and political dialogue. He also highlighted the significant efforts made by Egypt, Turkey, and Pakistan to mediate de-escalation and encourage the parties involved to cease hostilities and engage in peace talks.
Regarding the Palestinian issue, Abdelatty outlined Egypt’s ongoing efforts to ensure the implementation of the second phase of the US President’s peace plan. This includes deploying an international stabilization force, enabling the Gaza management committee to begin operations, and facilitating the return of the Palestinian Authority to assume full responsibility in the region, he added.
Abdelatty also called for intensified efforts to protect Palestinian civilians and create the necessary conditions to resume political negotiations aimed at achieving a just and lasting solution to the Palestinian issue. Abdelatty condemned the Israeli settlers’ attacks on Palestinian civilians and their property in the West Bank, calling these actions a blatant violation of international law and a setback to the prospects for peace.
In their discussion on Sudan, the US Secretary of State praised Egypt’s efforts in facilitating a temporary humanitarian ceasefire, which aims to lay the groundwork for a permanent cessation of hostilities. Abdelatty stressed the necessity of a Sudanese-led political process to develop a comprehensive roadmap for the country’s future, free from foreign interference, while safeguarding Sudan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
On Lebanon, Minister Abdelatty provided Secretary Rubio with an update on his recent visit to Lebanon. He called for an immediate cessation of Israeli escalation and attacks on Lebanon, reaffirming Egypt’s steadfast opposition to any violations of Lebanon’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, or civilian infrastructure. The minister also called for full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701, aimed at supporting Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Concerning water security, Abdelatty expressed Egypt’s appreciation for the message sent by US President Donald Trump to President Abdel Fattah El Sisi, acknowledging Egypt’s efforts on this vital issue. He also underlined that the Nile River is essential for Egypt’s survival, given the country’s acute water scarcity, and reiterated that Egypt’s water security is a matter of existential importance.
He reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment to cooperating with the Nile Basin countries under international law and in pursuit of mutual benefits, while condemning Ethiopia’s ongoing intransigence in the matter. Abdelatty firmly rejected any unilateral actions on the Nile, reaffirming that it is a transboundary watercourse, and any actions should be governed by international agreements.
At the conclusion of the call, they agreed to continue their coordination and consultations to further strengthen the strategic partnership between Egypt and the US, and support peace, security, and stability in the region.