Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty and U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met on September 18, 2024, to initiate the U.S.-Egypt Strategic Dialogue.
Abdelatty expressed gratitude for Blinken's presence and highlighted the importance of their strategic relationship. "You are always welcome here in Egypt," he said, acknowledging the Egyptian delegation, including ministers from higher education, tourism and antiquities, and education. He emphasized the need to enhance cooperation across various sectors such as economic affairs, tourism, education, security, defense, and IT.
The dialogue aims to foster political solutions to regional conflicts. Abdelatty noted joint efforts with Qatar to secure a ceasefire in Gaza and ensure humanitarian aid delivery. Discussions also covered crises in Ethiopia and Sudan, emphasizing the urgency of ceasefires and humanitarian assistance.
Secretary Blinken reciprocated Abdelatty's sentiments about the strong bilateral partnership. He conveyed appreciation for President El-Sisi’s productive discussions and reiterated the commitment of President Biden and Vice President Harris to deepen this strategic partnership. "We face so many shared challenges," Blinken stated.
Blinken announced the launch of working groups on education and culture as part of the Strategic Dialogue. Future groups will address regional issues, security cooperation, economic development, assistance, and human rights.
He acknowledged recent meetings of the Joint Economic Commission and upcoming Trade and Investment Framework Agreement group sessions as indicators of their collaborative efforts on urgent priorities affecting both nations.
Blinken praised Egypt’s role in regional peace efforts and its response to maritime threats in the Red Sea by Houthis targeting Suez Canal assets. He also commended Egypt's generosity in hosting Sudanese refugees amidst ongoing conflict.
Both leaders stressed mutual interest in deepening their partnership for effective representation of their peoples' interests.
The session concluded with Foreign Minister Abdelatty inviting three other ministers to join him in welcoming Secretary Blinken before starting their formal discussions.
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