Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty met with Belgian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. During the meeting, Abdelatty expressed his appreciation for Belgium's support for Egypt within the European Union. He also extended an invitation to Prévot to visit Cairo in November.
The two ministers discussed the proposal to establish a high-level joint ministerial committee to enhance cooperation between the two countries. They also explored ways to strengthen economic and investment cooperation, encouraging Belgian companies to participate in the Egyptian-European Investment Conference scheduled for 2027. Furthermore, they touched on promoting academic and research collaboration between Egyptian and Belgian universities.
The meeting also addressed the issue of migration, with Abdelatty emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach to address irregular migration. This approach would focus on supporting economic development, creating job opportunities, and developing skills, as well as expanding pathways for regular migration. Abdelatty highlighted the significant burden Egypt bears 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 essential services to refugees. The two ministers exchanged views on various regional and international issues of mutual concern, including the rapid developments in the region and ways to reduce escalation and promote regional security and stability.
Abdelatty emphasized the importance of de-escalation and finding political solutions to conflicts, which would enhance regional security and stability. He also underlined the need to ensure the security and freedom of maritime navigation in accordance with international law. The ministers discussed ways to promote peace and stability in the region.
The meeting between Abdelatty and Prévot reflects the strong bilateral relations between Egypt and Belgium, as well as their commitment to enhancing cooperation on various issues. Egypt values its relations with Belgium and appreciates its support within the European Union. The two countries are working together to strengthen their partnership in various fields.
Key points from the meeting include the proposal to establish a high-level joint ministerial committee, the importance of addressing irregular migration, and the need to promote regional security and stability. Egypt and Belgium are committed to continuing their cooperation and consultation on various regional and international issues.
Key points
- Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty praises Belgian support for Egypt within the EU.
- The two ministers discuss ways to enhance economic and investment cooperation.
- Abdelatty emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach to address irregular migration.