A file photo of Ambassador Tamim Khallaf, the official spokesperson of Egypt's Foreign Ministry. Photo : Al-Ahram
In an interview with Forbes Middle East, Khallaf stressed that Egypt avoids alignment with polarising blocs, maintains open channels of communication with all parties, and relies on its deep historical understanding of the region to act as a credible mediator during crises.
He said Egypt’s mediation in the Gaza war reflects a long-term strategic vision aimed at achieving a lasting and comprehensive peace between Palestinians and Israelis. Cairo’s approach, he noted, has prioritised an immediate ceasefire, the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza, and a sustained diplomatic campaign in support of Palestinian statehood.
Khallaf added that Egypt has also prepared a detailed, multi-phase plan for Gaza’s early recovery, rehabilitation, and reconstruction, and continues to coordinate with regional and international partners to ensure reconstruction efforts move forward without delay.
Egypt’s foreign policy principles, he said, are applied consistently across regional and international conflicts, including Libya, Sudan, Lebanon, Syria, Gaza, and Ukraine, with a focus on respecting sovereignty, strengthening state institutions, and upholding international law.
Economic diplomacy has become a central pillar of Egypt’s foreign policy, Khallaf said, with diplomatic missions promoting economic reforms, investment opportunities, and priority sectors to foreign governments and investors. He noted that Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty routinely holds economic forums during overseas visits to boost partnerships and business engagement.
Egypt is prioritizing trade and investment ties with Europe, Asia, and Africa, leveraging its strategic location, the Suez Canal, and access to emerging markets, while seeking high-value foreign investment in sectors such as artificial intelligence, energy, heavy industry, and agriculture.
Khallaf also highlighted Egypt’s expanding partnerships with key blocs, including the European Union, Gulf countries, African states, and BRICS, pointing to the elevation of relations with the EU to a Comprehensive and Strategic Partnership and growing economic cooperation across the Global South.
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