Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty attended a series of meetings on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, where he stressed the need to protect freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Abdelatty called for de-escalation and a return to political negotiations over the Iran crisis and developments in Yemen. He emphasized that maritime security and freedom of navigation should be protected in accordance with international law.
Abdelatty discussed Iran, Yemen, and the Strait of Hormuz with European Union Special Representative for the Gulf Luigi Di Maio. The two officials highlighted the importance of political dialogue and negotiations to strengthen regional security and stability. They also explored expanding Egypt-EU cooperation in trade, investment, and energy. This meeting aimed to foster greater collaboration between Egypt and the EU in addressing regional challenges.
Abdelatty delivered a similar message in talks with International Crisis Group President Comfort Ero, covering Gaza, Sudan, Yemen, and Iran. The discussions focused on efforts to contain regional crises through political and diplomatic channels. Abdelatty called for full and sustained access for humanitarian assistance and continued international support for early recovery efforts in Gaza. He reiterated Cairo's position on Sudan, advocating for an end to the conflict and a political settlement.
In a separate meeting, Abdelatty discussed expanded cooperation with UNOPS Executive Director Jorge Moreira da Silva, particularly on projects in health, transport, infrastructure, and digital transformation. Egypt aims to utilize UNOPS technical expertise in project implementation and management, as well as in mobilizing development finance and partners. This cooperation seeks to support Egypt's development goals and address regional challenges.
Abdelatty also met with Rebeca Grynspan, Costa Rica's candidate for UN secretary-general, to discuss the future of multilateralism and the organization's ability to respond to international crises. Grynspan was formally nominated for the post in March 2026. Abdelatty emphasized that the United Nations should prioritize problems affecting developing countries, including development finance, debt burdens, and climate change.
Abdelatty held talks with Columbia University professor Jeffrey Sachs, who chairs the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network, on climate change, sustainable development, and cooperation between Egyptian universities and research institutions and the network. Abdelatty noted that developing countries face a financing gap constraining progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals. He called for greater efforts to mobilize resources and expand cooperation with research and development institutions.
Abdelatty also backed reform of the United Nations, stating that changes should be based on transparent and objective assessments of operational efficiency, economic viability, and measurable impact. Current Secretary-General António Guterres is set to leave office at the end of 2026, with the Security Council responsible for recommending a candidate to the General Assembly. The UNGA meetings provided a platform for Abdelatty to engage with various stakeholders on pressing global issues.
Key points
- Egyptian FM Badr Abdelatty calls for protection of Strait of Hormuz shipping and de-escalation in Iran crisis at UNGA meetings.
- Abdelatty discusses expanded cooperation with UNOPS and EU officials on regional challenges and development projects.
- Egypt seeks to prioritize problems affecting developing countries, including development finance and climate change, at the United Nations.
