Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty met with Belgian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot on September 21, on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York. Abdelatty expressed his desire to host Prévot in Cairo in November, appreciating Belgium's support for Egypt within the European Union. The two ministers discussed ways to strengthen economic and investment cooperation between their countries.
The meeting also touched on the proposal to establish a high-level joint ministerial committee to enhance bilateral relations. Abdelatty and Prévot explored ways to encourage Belgian companies to participate in the Egyptian-European Investment Conference, scheduled for its third edition in 2027. They also discussed promoting academic and research cooperation between Egyptian and Belgian universities.
The two ministers addressed the issue of migration, with Abdelatty emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach to tackle irregular migration. This approach should focus on supporting economic development, creating job opportunities, and developing skills, as well as expanding legal migration channels. Abdelatty highlighted the increasing burden on Egypt in hosting a large number of refugees.
Abdelatty stressed the importance of the international community shouldering its responsibilities in supporting host countries and providing necessary funding to enable them to continue offering basic services to refugees. He also exchanged views with Prévot on several regional and international issues of common interest, including the rapid developments in the region and ways to reduce escalation and promote regional security and stability.
The Egyptian Foreign Minister emphasized the importance of de-escalation and adopting political solutions to promote regional security and stability. He also stressed the need to ensure the security and freedom of maritime navigation in accordance with international law. The two ministers reviewed the current situation and challenges in the region.
Abdelatty and Prévot discussed ways to promote economic cooperation and investment between Egypt and Belgium. They also explored opportunities for cooperation in various fields, including trade, industry, and technology. The meeting aimed to strengthen bilateral relations and promote mutual interests.
The visit of the Belgian Foreign Minister to Egypt is expected to take place in November, which will provide an opportunity for further discussions on enhancing economic and investment cooperation. The two countries are committed to strengthening their bilateral relations and promoting cooperation in various fields.
Key points
- Egypt and Belgium discuss ways to strengthen economic and investment cooperation
- The two countries explore opportunities for cooperation in various fields, including trade, industry, and technology
- Egypt hosts a large number of refugees and stresses the importance of international support
