During a phone call, Abdelatty stressed the importance of providing economic support and ensuring liquidity to contain the negative effects of the current escalation on Egypt, particularly amid rising energy and food prices and declining revenues from tourism and the Suez Canal.
According to the Egyptian foreign ministry, the Egyptian and American FMs also addressed the latest regional developments and the widening scope of the conflict.
Abdelatty reiterated Cairo's unwavering commitment to prioritizing diplomatic solutions and fully supporting the political track through negotiations.
He also highlighted Egypt, Turkey, and Pakistan's sincere efforts to reduce tensions and encourage the parties to the conflict to de-escalate tensions and end the war.
For his part, Rubio expressed the US administration’s appreciation for the Egyptian leadership and for Cairo’s constructive role, as a mediator, in de-escalating tensions, supporting security and stability, and containing crises in the region.
The talks come as regional escalation and instability in the Middle East affect shipping routes and trade flows.
The crisis has exerted pressure on foreign currency inflows to Egypt, especially from key sectors such as tourism and the Suez Canal. It has also amplified inflationary pressures.
Gaza
During the call, the two sides also discussed developments in the Gaza Strip.
Abdelatty reviewed Egypt’s intensive efforts to ensure the implementation of all provisions of the second phase of US President Donald Trump’s plan.
He emphasized the deployment of an international stabilization force in Gaza and the urgent need to admit the Palestinian National Committee for Gaza’s Administration into the strip to begin preparations for the Palestinian National Authority's return to assume its responsibilities there.
Moreover, the Egyptian FM underscored the urgent need to intensify efforts to protect Palestinian civilians. He also affirmed the importance of creating the conditions necessary to resume the political track that culminates in a just and comprehensive settlement to the Palestinian cause.
Furthermore, he condemned Israeli settler attacks against Palestinian civilians and their property in the West Bank, stressing that such practices constitute a blatant violation of international law and undermine prospects for peace.
Sudan
The call also addressed the war in Sudan.
Abdelatty emphasized the launching of a Sudanese-owned political process to develop a comprehensive roadmap for building a new Sudan.
He stressed the need to respect Sudan’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity and support its national institutions. He also commended US efforts within the international Quad.
For his part, Rubio expressed appreciation for Egypt’s constructive role in efforts to reach a temporary humanitarian truce that would pave the way for a permanent ceasefire.
Lebanon
The Egyptian FM referred to the outcomes of his recent visit to Beirut, stressing the need for an immediate halt to escalation and Israeli attacks on Lebanon. He reaffirmed Egypt’s firm rejection of any infringement on Lebanon’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity, or targeting of civilian infrastructure.
He also highlighted the importance of empowering state institutions and fully implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1701.
Furthermore, he urged support for the Lebanese state’s efforts to monopolize arms and extend its authority and sovereignty across all Lebanese territory.
Water security
According to the Egyptian foreign ministry, the call also addressed the water security file.
Abdelatty reiterated Egypt’s deep appreciation for President Trump’s message to President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi and his valued efforts on this issue.
He stressed that the Nile River represents the lifeline of the Egyptian people, who live under severe water scarcity. He also affirmed that water security is an existential issue for Egypt.
Moreover, the Egyptian FM affirmed Cairo’s commitment to clear principles based on serious and constructive cooperation with Nile Basin countries in accordance with international law and in a manner that achieves mutual interests.
He pointed to Ethiopia's continued intransigence, firmly rejecting any unilateral measures on the Nile, a transboundary river.
Both sides also discussed ways to support and enhance the Egypt-US strategic partnership. They praised the depth of these relations, especially during the last 40 years, which serve mutual interests across all fields and contribute to regional security and stability.
In conclusion, Abdelatty and Rubio emphasized the importance of strengthening relations between Egypt and the US. They also agreed to continue consultations to promote regional security and stability.
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