El alamein: Relations between Trkiye and Egypt have reached an "excellent level" under the guidance of their presidents, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan announced during a joint news conference with Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty in El Alamein. The collaboration between the two nations is contributing to regional prosperity and stability, Fidan stated.
According to Anadolu Agency, both countries are aligned on the issue of Libya's unity and territorial integrity. The ministers discussed the growing interest in the potential transfer of football star Mohamed Salah to Turkish club Trabzonspor, which has bolstered camaraderie between the peoples of Trkiye and Egypt. During his two-day visit to Egypt, Fidan reviewed plans for the next High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council meeting, slated for 2028 in Trkiye, emphasizing its significance for economic relations.
Fidan revealed that he and Egypt's Investment and Foreign Trade Minister, Mohamed Farid Saleh, signed an amendment to their free trade agreement to facilitate better business conditions. Egypt also joined a memorandum on connectivity, previously signed by Trkiye and several African nations. Cooperation between Trkiye and Egypt spans various sectors, including military relations and joint exercises.
Fidan highlighted Trkiye's commitment to dialogue and cooperation in the Eastern Mediterranean, seeking to enhance maritime collaboration with Egypt. On regional matters, Fidan noted that Trkiye and Egypt maintain a shared understanding and closely coordinate efforts regarding Gaza and other regional developments, including humanitarian aid.
Addressing regional security, Fidan mentioned the Mecca Joint Defense Agreement involving Saudi Arabia, Trkiye, and Pakistan, urging regional countries to take charge of their issues. He expressed hope for Egypt to join this alliance, underscoring its non-confrontational nature and focus on security and prosperity.
Fidan warned of potential setbacks in the Gaza peace process if Israel fails to meet its commitments, emphasizing the critical stage of negotiations mediated by Trkiye, Egypt, and Qatar. He criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government for its lack of commitment to peace and called for increased international pressure on Israel.
On Sudan, Fidan stressed the importance of dialogue to resolve conflicts, acknowledging the challenges involved. He noted Egypt's direct risks from Sudan's instability, including refugee flows, and praised Egypt's assistance to Sudanese refugees. Fidan's visit to Egypt includes meetings with President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and senior officials to further strengthen bilateral ties.