Cairo, Egypt – The ongoing partnership between Egypt and Italy has recently been reaffirmed through a significant diplomatic meeting. Badr Abdelatty, Egypt’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, expressed admiration for the historical ties that connect the two nations during a joint press conference with Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani.
Strengthening Diplomatic Relations
The press conference took place following comprehensive discussions at the Foreign Ministry in Cairo. Abdelatty welcomed Tajani and his team, framing the visit as an opportunity to evaluate the progress and future potential of Egyptian-Italian relations. He emphasized the importance of expanding cooperation both bilaterally and within the context of Egypt’s relationship with the European Union. Among the agenda items were discussions about regional and international challenges of mutual concern.
Earlier in the day, Tajani met with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El Sisi, where they reviewed the latest developments in bilateral relations. The focus included Egypt’s commitment to enhancing partnerships across various sectors. A critical point of conversation involved water security, which Abdelatty outlined as a vital issue affecting over 110 million Egyptians. He underscored the necessity for international support in safeguarding Egypt’s water interests while advocating adherence to international law and rejecting unilateral actions.
Economic Collaboration and Trade
The inaugural session of the Egyptian-Italian Joint Committee marked a milestone in their relationship, facilitating deeper cooperation through a structured framework. Abdelatty noted that this session was pivotal for translating shared political intentions into actionable projects. Attracted investment was a primary focus, highlighting Egypt’s eagerness to draw more Italian businesses, with over 1,300 already operating within its borders.
Impressive progress is reflected in the trade volumes between Egypt and Italy, escalating from €5.2 billion in 2024 to approximately €8.7 billion last year. This growth underscores the mutual commitment to enhancing economic ties, particularly through investments in a favorable climate. The discussions also addressed pressing social issues such as irregular migration and workers’ rights, particularly for Egyptian expatriates in Italy.
Collaborating on Regional Issues
In addition to economic discussions, the meeting covered multiple regional matters, including the situation in Palestine, Libya, and Sudan. Both countries recognized the necessity of a comprehensive and just resolution to the Palestinian issue to secure the rights of the Palestinian people and emphasize the establishment of an independent state. Egypt and Italy’s shared perspectives on several regional challenges reassert their collaborative spirit.
Furthermore, the humanitarian efforts made by Egypt, such as significant aid directed to the Gaza Strip, were praised. Abdelatty noted the impact of these measures, in conjunction with Italy’s ongoing involvement in regional peace efforts. Both parties condemned acts of aggression by Israel in Lebanon and affirmed the need for safeguarding Lebanon’s territorial integrity and stability.
In summary, the discussions between Egypt and Italy have not only reinforced their longstanding relationship but have also set the stage for collaborative efforts in various fields, including trade, humanitarian initiatives, and regional stabilization strategies. Egypt’s commitment to sustaining and enhancing this partnership reflects a broader vision for a strong Mediterranean alliance rooted in mutual respect and shared interests.