Egypt’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Immigration, Dr. Badr Abdelatty, held crucial discussions with U.S. National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, U.S. Middle East Envoy Steve Weitzkopf, and U.S. National Security Council Middle East and North Africa Coordinator, Erik Trager, on February 10, 2025.
The meeting focused on enhancing the longstanding strategic partnership between Egypt and the United States, with both sides emphasizing mutual interests in regional stability and security. Minister Abdelatty expressed Egypt’s commitment to continuing robust cooperation with the new U.S. administration, particularly in addressing ongoing conflicts and advancing peace efforts in the Middle East.
Strengthening Egypt- U.S. Partnership
In his remarks, Minister Abdelatty acknowledged the deep and enduring relationship between Egypt and the U.S., which spans over four decades of collaboration in various sectors. He reaffirmed Egypt’s eagerness to work alongside the Biden administration to further strengthen bilateral ties and continue promoting peace, security, and stability across the region.
The Palestinian-Israeli Conflict and Gaza
The discussions also highlighted the escalating situation in the Middle East, particularly the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Minister Abdelatty stressed Egypt’s ongoing efforts to mediate a sustainable ceasefire, including facilitating humanitarian assistance to Gaza and advocating for the reconstruction of the region with a focus on preserving the rights of the Palestinian people.
He emphasized the importance of finding a long-term political solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict based on international law, calling for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state along the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
Regional Challenges: Sudan, Syria, and Water Security
The meeting also included extensive talks on the evolving crises in Sudan and Syria. On Sudan, Minister Abdelatty reiterated Egypt’s support for Sudanese state institutions and the need for an immediate cessation of hostilities, while stressing the importance of respecting Sudan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Regarding Syria, the two sides underscored the necessity of an inclusive political process that accounts for all segments of Syrian society. Minister Abdelatty reaffirmed Egypt’s position on supporting Syria’s territorial integrity and stability, with a clear rejection of any external interference or fragmentation of the country.
The Critical Issue of Water Security
Another significant aspect of the meeting was the discussion of Egypt’s water security, particularly regarding the ongoing Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) negotiations. Minister Abdelatty reiterated Egypt’s firm stance on securing a legally binding agreement for the operation of the dam, ensuring that the rights of downstream countries are respected without compromising their access to essential water resources.
U.S.-Egypt Economic Cooperation
The ministers also touched upon economic and commercial ties between Egypt and the U.S. Minister Abdelatty discussed the upcoming “Future of Egypt Economic Forum” set to take place in Cairo later this year. This forum, organized in collaboration with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, aims to bolster trade and investment relations and enhance the U.S. presence in Egypt’s burgeoning markets.
Conclusion: A Commitment to Ongoing Cooperation
The meeting concluded with an agreement on the continued need for close coordination between Egypt and the U.S. on key regional issues, including security, humanitarian aid, and diplomatic initiatives. Both sides expressed their commitment to further advancing their partnership, ensuring that it remains a cornerstone for peace and prosperity in the region.
The talks also emphasized the importance of maintaining frequent dialogue and collaboration between the two countries to address emerging challenges in the Middle East and North Africa.
Joint Efforts to Promote Peace and Stability
The meeting underscored the significance of Egypt’s role as a regional leader and peace broker, particularly in conflict zones such as Gaza, Syria, and Sudan. As both nations strive to foster peace and stability in the region, the partnership between Egypt and the U.S. continues to be pivotal in addressing critical issues of international concern.
