In a landmark press statement, President Ursula von der Leyen, alongside Austrian Chancellor Nehammer, Belgian Prime Minister De Croo, Cypriot President Christodoulidis, Greek Prime Minister Mitsotakis, and Italian Prime Minister Meloni, joined Egyptian President El-Sisi to unveil a strategic and comprehensive partnership between the European Union and Egypt.
The significance of this partnership was underscored by the presence of six European leaders, highlighting the depth of the relationship and the shared commitment to stability and prosperity in the region. President von der Leyen emphasized Egypt’s political and economic weight, as well as its strategic location, as driving forces behind the increasing importance of EU-Egypt relations.
A historic milestone was marked with the signing of a joint declaration outlining six main pillars of cooperation. These pillars encompass areas of mutual interest for both Europe and Egypt, including political dialogue, economic stability, investment and trade, migration and mobility, security and law enforcement, and people-to-people exchanges.
Central to the partnership is a new financial and investment package totaling EUR 7.4 billion over the next four years. This significant investment underscores the EU’s commitment to supporting Egypt’s reform efforts and fostering economic development.
The partnership’s focus on economic stability includes support for Egypt’s reform agenda, with financial assistance provided in collaboration with international partners. Investment and trade will also be prioritized, with a particular emphasis on renewable energy, digitalization, connectivity, agriculture, and water management.
During ongoing regional challenges, the European Union (EU) and Egypt are reaffirming their commitment to deepening cooperation across various pillars. The recent discussions between EU officials and Egyptian counterparts highlighted the importance of joint efforts in addressing key issues, ranging from migration and mobility to security, law enforcement, and humanitarian aid.
Migration and Mobility: One of the pillars of cooperation emphasized was migration and mobility. Recognizing the importance of effective cooperation in this area, the EU announced plans to invest at least EUR 200 million to enhance collaboration further. Efforts will focus on facilitating legal migration, including initiatives like Talent Partnerships, while also addressing challenges related to illegal migration through improved border management and anti-smuggling measures.
Security and Law Enforcement: Building upon established cooperation on counterterrorism, both parties pledged to reinforce efforts in security and law enforcement. With security concerns looming large in the region, strengthening cooperation in this area is critical to ensuring regional stability and combating common threats.
People, Skills, and Research: Highlighting the significance of people-to-people exchanges and research collaboration, the discussions underscored the importance of deepening ties through programs like the Erasmus+ program. Egypt’s potential accession to EU programs such as Creative Europe and Horizon Europe was also discussed, signaling a commitment to fostering collaboration in research and innovation.
Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza: Amidst discussions on cooperation, concerns were raised about the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. The EU reiterated its commitment to providing much-needed assistance, including medical equipment and aid to Palestinians. Efforts are underway to ensure the delivery of humanitarian aid through various routes, including a newly opened maritime corridor in Cyprus.
Intensifying Partnership: Despite the challenges posed by regional crises, the discussions highlighted the importance of intensifying the EU-Egypt partnership. Recognizing Egypt’s pivotal role in regional stability, both parties expressed eagerness to deepen cooperation and enhance mutual interests.
In conclusion, amidst turbulent times, the EU-Egypt partnership stands as a beacon of collaboration and mutual support. By addressing common challenges together, both parties are poised to strengthen regional stability, security, and prosperity, underscoring the value of a robust partnership in times of crisis.
As discussions continue, the EU and Egypt are looking forward to embarking on a new chapter of cooperation, characterized by shared goals, mutual respect, and a commitment to addressing regional challenges.
