Egypt's President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi recently met with Greek Defence Minister Nikos Dendias and Cypriot Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas to discuss expanding military and security cooperation between Egypt and the two countries. The meetings focused on security in the East Mediterranean, counterterrorism, and irregular migration. Al-Sisi emphasized the importance of developing the strategic partnership between Cairo and Athens, particularly in defence and military cooperation.
During the meeting with Dendias, Al-Sisi described the Egypt-Greece-Cyprus trilateral mechanism as a crucial framework for regional cooperation. He called for continued coordination to address shared security challenges and support stability and development in the East Mediterranean. Dendias expressed Greece's desire to strengthen coordination with Egypt on counterterrorism and irregular migration, appreciating Cairo's role in limiting irregular migration flows.
In a separate meeting with Palmas, Al-Sisi sought deeper strategic ties between Cairo and Nicosia, particularly in the security and military fields. He stressed the importance of the trilateral mechanism with Greece, highlighting its potential to reinforce security, stability, and economic development in the East Mediterranean. Palmas praised Egypt's role in regional de-escalation efforts and tackling irregular migration.
The meetings took place shortly after a trilateral summit involving Egypt, Greece, and Cyprus in El Alamein, which is part of an established mechanism for coordinating East Mediterranean security, energy, and regional connectivity. The summit demonstrated the commitment of the three countries to addressing regional challenges through cooperation.
Egyptian presidency spokesperson Mohamed El-Shennawy said Al-Sisi's discussions with the Greek and Cypriot defence ministers reflected the strong relationships between Egypt and its regional partners. The meetings showcased Egypt's efforts to strengthen its strategic partnerships with neighbouring countries to promote regional stability and security.
The East Mediterranean has become a critical region for security and economic development, with countries seeking to address shared challenges through cooperation. Egypt, Greece, and Cyprus have established a trilateral mechanism to coordinate on regional issues, including security, energy, and connectivity. The mechanism has facilitated regular dialogue and cooperation among the three countries.
The strengthened cooperation between Egypt, Greece, and Cyprus is expected to contribute to regional stability and security. The three countries will continue to coordinate on East Mediterranean security challenges, counterterrorism, and irregular migration, promoting a more stable and secure region.
Key points
- Egypt's President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi seeks stronger military cooperation with Greece and Cyprus.
- The trilateral mechanism between Egypt, Greece, and Cyprus aims to address shared security challenges.
- The meetings reflect Egypt's efforts to strengthen strategic partnerships with regional countries.
