Ankara: Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty reiterated full support on Wednesday for Syria's security, stability, and sovereignty, emphasizing that Damascus 'poses no threat' to the countries of the region. Speaking at a joint press conference with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan in Ankara, Abdelatty voiced hope that Syria 'will resume its active role within the Arab, Islamic, and international frameworks through an inclusive political process that excludes no one, alongside combating terrorism and extremism to achieve the aspirations of the Syrian people.'
According to Anadolu Agency, Abdelatty said he held 'fruitful consultations' with his counterpart on various bilateral and regional issues of mutual concern. He revealed that Egypt and Trkiye are preparing to hold the second session of the High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council in Cairo soon, with participation from President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The minister highlighted the target to increase bilateral trade to $15 billion in the coming years, reflecting the 'unprecedented momentum' in economic relations between the two nations.
Abdelatty expressed delight that his Ankara visit coincides with the celebration of the 100th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Egypt and Trkiye. To mark the occasion, Egypt plans to present a replica of the statue of King Amenhotep III to be prominently displayed in the Turkish capital. He assured that both countries would work to eliminate obstacles hindering the achievement of the targeted trade volume and continue to foster a favorable investment environment to boost Turkish investments in Egypt.
The Egyptian minister also discussed ongoing negotiations in New York regarding a US draft resolution on a proposed international stabilization force for Gaza. He emphasized that the priority is to consolidate the ceasefire, followed by deploying international forces under a specific mandate to maintain peace. Regarding Gaza, Abdelatty called for a prompt reconstruction conference and the entry of medical aid, underscoring the urgency of humanitarian action as winter approaches.
Abdelatty highlighted Egypt's commitment to 'flood' the Gaza Strip with humanitarian and medical aid as part of early recovery efforts, paving the way for full reconstruction. He stressed the need to ensure the continuation of the ceasefire, facilitate large aid entry, secure Israel's withdrawal from Gaza, and prevent a return to conflict. He also reaffirmed Egypt's dedication to the two-state solution and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state, reiterating opposition to Israeli practices in the occupied West Bank and any infringement on Palestinian rights.
Regarding Sudan, Abdelatty and Fidan emphasized the importance of preserving Sudan's national institutions and expressed support for restoring stability and peace. They agreed on the necessity to halt the fighting, prioritize a political solution, and uphold Sudan's unity and territorial integrity, rejecting any plans for division.
Abdelatty also addressed the Libyan crisis, stressing the need to support a Libyan-led solution and respect Libya's national institutions. He expressed hope for a swift end to the division and the rapid holding of simultaneous presidential and parliamentary elections, ensuring the withdrawal of all foreign forces and mercenaries to preserve Libya's unity and sovereignty.
The talks also covered regional issues, including developments in the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea region. Abdelatty and Fidan agreed to strengthen joint cooperation to serve the interests of the African continent.