Cairo: Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty expressed his gratitude to the Turkish people for their "warm welcome" to Egyptian football star Mohamed Salah, who recently joined Trabzonspor, during a joint news conference with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan in Cairo.

According to Anadolu Agency, the two foreign ministers discussed a range of topics, highlighting the strong foundations of Egypt-Trkiye relations. Abdelatty condemned Israeli attacks on Syria's sovereignty and expressed Egypt's shared stance with Trkiye on supporting Sudan's territorial integrity. The ministers also addressed the Gaza situation, urging Israel to meet its obligations under the Gaza Peace Plan.

Economic discussions focused on enhancing bilateral trade, with a target set at $15 billion. Abdelatty emphasized the importance of the free trade agreement between the nations and the growing presence of Turkish companies in Egypt. Both countries aim to expand cooperation in various sectors, including energy, technology, and education.

The Palestinian situation was a key discussion point, with Abdelatty condemning Israeli violations and emphasizing the balanced implementation of the Gaza Peace Plan's second phase. He called for international pressure on Israel to comply with its obligations.

The ministers also addressed Libya's political situation, advocating for unified state institutions and a Libyan-led solution. In Sudan, they agreed on the importance of a ceasefire and an inclusive political process, condemning the smuggling of weapons to militias.

Abdelatty noted ongoing evaluations regarding Egypt potentially joining the Mecca Joint Defense Agreement. The discussion also covered the economic impacts of the Ukraine war, with Egypt supporting efforts to ensure safe maritime navigation in the Black Sea, crucial for its wheat imports.