Egypt, Germany discuss Israeli escalation, wider regional tensions in Cairo

Ahram Online , Saturday 14 Jun 2025

Egypt’s foreign minister, Badr Abdelatty, met his German counterpart, Johann Wadephul, in Cairo on Friday to discuss the worsening situation in the Middle East, particularly following Israel’s military strikes on Iran.


Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty speaks during a press conference with his German counterpart Johann Wadephul in Cairo. Photo: Egyptian foreign ministry

 

Abdelatty described the Israeli actions as a “serious escalation” with potentially grave consequences for regional and global stability.

According to a statement from the Egyptian foreign ministry, he reiterated Egypt’s position that military approaches will not resolve ongoing crises in the region.

The two ministers also reviewed the situation in Gaza. Abdelatty noted ongoing mediation efforts by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States to broker a ceasefire and facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid.

He urged Israel to comply with international law and humanitarian obligations.

He called for more assertive action from the European Union (EU) to end the humanitarian crisis and advance the recognition of a Palestinian state.

 

Beyond Gaza, the ministers discussed a range of regional flashpoints, including Syria, Lebanon, Libya, Sudan, the Horn of Africa, and the Red Sea.

Abdelatty outlined Egypt’s positions on these conflicts, emphasizing the need for political and diplomatic solutions, respect for sovereignty, and support for national institutions.

Strengthening Egypt-Germany ties

The meeting also included talks on bilateral relations. Both ministers explored ways to deepen economic, trade, and investment cooperation.

Abdelatty highlighted Egypt’s recent economic reforms and the potential they offer for German businesses. 

 

Over 1,600 German companies operate in Egypt, and Cairo hopes to attract further investment, particularly in renewable energy, infrastructure, vocational training and labour mobility.

He also expressed interest in expanding trilateral cooperation with Germany in Africa, primarily through the Cairo International Center for Conflict Resolution, Peacekeeping and Peacebuilding (CCCPA).

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