Speaking on Sunday in an interview with the Al-Hekaya programme on MBC Masr, FM Abdelatty said the international community has a primary responsibility, stressing that Egypt’s message to global partners has been consistent: “There are limits to what Egypt can bear.”
He said Egypt has made it clear to several Western countries that these limits cannot be exceeded and that partners must help shoulder the burden or face the consequences.
“We have reached a point, not as a threat, but as a clear reminder of responsibility, where Egypt can no longer continue to carry these consequences on its own,” Abdelatty said.
He also pointed to growing pressure from irregular migration, noting that many migrants view Egypt as a transit route to Europe.
Abdelatty said Egypt does not operate refugee camps and that only a small proportion of refugees, between 8 and 9 percent, are registered with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), as many choose not to register.
He added that Egypt provides protection, security, and a wide range of services, including education and healthcare, without charge, stressing that the state does not exploit refugees.
The foreign minister said Egypt is seeking increased investment from the European Union, international partners, and international financial institutions through soft loans to create job opportunities for refugees.
“We are seeking support not for ourselves, but for refugees,” he emphasized.
Responding to calls for deportation, Abdelatty stressed that returns are voluntary, in line with Egypt’s international obligations and treaties, and that forced deportation is not an option.
He also cited ongoing instability in the region, particularly in refugees’ countries of origin.
On Syrian refugees, Abdelatty said conditions in Syria have begun to improve, prompting Egypt to call on donor countries to fund early recovery projects in and around Damascus to support voluntary returns. He noted, however, that many Syrian cities still lack basic services and infrastructure.
Regarding Sudanese refugees, he said many have started returning voluntarily following improved stability in Khartoum, Omdurman, and Port Sudan, with trains operating to transport those wishing to return.
Abdelatty stressed that hosting refugees brings no material benefit to Egypt, but that the country’s approach is based on humanitarian principles and a commitment to protecting those fleeing war, violence, and destruction.
He also referred to history, noting that the Holy Family, Jesus and Mary, were the first refugees to Egypt, underscoring that Egypt has never closed its doors to people escaping conflict.
On legal matters, Abdelatty said the recently passed Egyptian asylum law grants the government, for the first time since the establishment of the UNHCR in 1948, the authority to determine who qualifies for refugee status.
He said the law aligns with international conventions and UNHCR rules, ensuring that only those who meet the criteria receive refugee status and preventing ineligible individuals from entering Egypt under that designation.
Abdelatty added that the Ministry of Interior has introduced regulations requiring everyone on Egyptian territory to respect Egyptian law and refrain from any illegal activities.
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