Manila: Dr. Badr Abdelatty, Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Egyptian Expatriates, engaged in discussions with Mr. Sihasak Phuangketkeow, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand, during the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Manila, the Philippines. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the event, highlighting Egypt's dedication to fostering bilateral relations and strengthening cooperation with ASEAN countries.
According to State Information Service Egypt, Minister Abdelatty expressed Egypt's pride in its longstanding relationship with Thailand and emphasized the growing momentum in bilateral ties. He reiterated Egypt's commitment to advancing cooperation across various fields, leveraging the potential both countries possess. The Foreign Minister also underscored Egypt's interest in enhancing relations with Asian countries and developing partnerships with ASEAN due to the Association's significant role in promoting security, stability, and economic development.
Dr. Abdelatty highlighted Egypt's efforts to deepen institutional relations with ASEAN since joining the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in 2016. On the economic front, he emphasized the importance of increasing bilateral trade and investment flows between Egypt and Thailand. He praised existing Thai investments in Egypt, especially in the Suez Canal Economic Zone, and expressed eagerness to attract more investments in key sectors such as food industries, tourism, energy, and automotive components.
Moreover, Minister Abdelatty stressed the necessity of activating existing cooperation frameworks and building on the outcomes of the recent political consultations held in Cairo. He highlighted the ongoing cooperation in education and religious sectors, praising the academic excellence of Thai students in Egypt and expressing a desire to expand collaboration in capacity building and training.
The ministers also deliberated on regional and international developments, with Minister Abdelatty outlining Egypt's efforts to de-escalate tensions in the Middle East. He emphasized Egypt's support for peaceful dispute resolution in accordance with international law and the importance of diplomatic efforts in achieving regional security.
The Thai Foreign Minister reciprocated Egypt's sentiments, expressing pride in the close ties between the two nations and reaffirming Thailand's commitment to strengthening cooperation and coordinating on regional and international matters of mutual interest.