Germany’s Federal Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development, Reem Alabali-Radovan, arrived in Cairo today for high-level talks with Egyptian and Arab League officials to discuss the roadmap for the reconstruction of Gaza. The visit underscores Germany’s interest in playing an early and constructive role in efforts to rebuild the war-torn coastal enclave.
The trip follows the recent presentation of a comprehensive Arab reconstruction plan for Gaza, jointly proposed by Egypt and several regional partners, which aims to provide a long-term, politically grounded solution to the humanitarian catastrophe.
“The Arab plan offers a realistic pathway toward rebuilding Gaza,” said Minister Alabali-Radovan ahead of her meetings. “It could serve as a meaningful starting point to restore hope and dignity for the people of Gaza. As Germany’s Development Minister, I want to be engaged from the outset. Germany is ready to contribute to this effort.”
Political Preconditions and the Humanitarian Imperative
Alabali-Radovan emphasized that a secure humanitarian environment, a lasting ceasefire, and a credible political framework are prerequisites for any sustainable reconstruction process. She was unequivocal in her assertion that Hamas must have no future role in governing Gaza, and that Israel’s security must no longer be threatened by actors within the enclave.
The minister also stressed that forced displacement, land reductions, or coerced resettlement in Gaza or the West Bank must be categorically rejected.
“This is a massive and complex mission,” she said. “Even though the situation on the ground remains dire, it is crucial to begin serious discussions now about how to make reconstruction succeed.”
High-Level Talks in Cairo
During her visit, Alabali-Radovan is scheduled to meet with Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, Foreign Minister Badr Abdel Atty, Minister of International Cooperation Rania Al-Mashat, and Arab League Deputy Secretary-General Hossam Zaki. Talks will center on the implementation mechanisms of the Arab reconstruction initiative and potential German support through the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).
Germany views reconstruction as a long-term commitment likely to span the next decade, and insists on broad international burden-sharing, involving both regional powers and UN agencies. Berlin also maintains that any reconstruction must be embedded within a comprehensive political process toward a negotiated two-state solution.
Germany’s Potential Contributions
While security conditions still preclude large-scale intervention, Alabali-Radovan stated that her ministry is prepared to launch immediate relief measures when conditions permit—such as improving access to water, electricity, and temporary shelter in Gaza. BMZ also stands ready to provide technical and institutional support for rebuilding critical civilian infrastructure.
The visit signals Germany’s commitment to a balanced, multilateral approach that blends humanitarian urgency with political realism, while reinforcing Cairo’s central role as a regional stabilizer.
