Egyptian President, Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, met with Dubravka Šuica, the European Union Commissioner for the Mediterranean, on Sunday in a high-level meeting that focused on vital issues including migration, regional security, and the strengthening of Egypt-EU relations.
The meeting, which was confirmed by the Egyptian presidency, highlighted the critical importance of addressing the root causes of illegal migration through a holistic approach that connects migration with development goals. Both leaders emphasized the necessity of tackling these complex issues together as part of a broader partnership.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
President El-Sisi welcomed the newly created role of the EU Commissioner for the Mediterranean, describing it as a “positive step” in enhancing cooperation between the European Union and Mediterranean nations.
El-Sisi also pointed to the increasing momentum of Egypt-EU relations, especially following the recent elevation of their partnership to a “strategic and comprehensive” level, which officially begins in March 2024. The President stressed the importance of accelerating joint efforts to implement the framework laid out in the new partnership agreement.
Gaza and Regional Stability
A significant portion of the discussions centered around the ongoing situation in Gaza. Šuica, who represents the EU on issues concerning the Mediterranean, expressed appreciation for Egypt’s active role in facilitating ceasefire agreements, prisoner exchanges, and delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza. El-Sisi reiterated Egypt’s efforts to ensure the region’s reconstruction without displacing Palestinian citizens, emphasizing Egypt’s commitment to stabilizing the area.
Šuica also reaffirmed the EU’s unwavering support for Egypt’s diplomatic efforts in seeking peace in Gaza and highlighted the European Union’s broader goal of a two-state solution as a path to lasting peace in the region. Both sides agreed that a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is paramount for regional stability.
Regional Conflicts and Cooperation
The leaders also discussed ongoing crises in Libya, Sudan, and Syria, where instability continues to threaten both national security and regional peace. The importance of working together to support peace initiatives in these countries was underscored, with both El-Sisi and Šuica agreeing that concerted efforts are needed to address the humanitarian and security challenges in these nations.
Economic Cooperation
Beyond geopolitical and humanitarian concerns, El-Sisi and Šuica also discussed the potential for expanding trade and investment between Egypt and the EU. The two leaders agreed that closer economic ties would be mutually beneficial, particularly in light of the ongoing political developments and the growing focus on sustainable development across the Mediterranean.
As the meeting concluded, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing Egypt-EU relations, not only on migration and security but also in economic and development cooperation, with an eye toward securing long-term peace and stability in the Mediterranean region.
