The meeting comes ahead of the Seventh Summit of the Speakers’ of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Union For the Mediterranean (PA-UFM), which is scheduled to be held in Brussels on 3-4 December.

According to an official statement, Gebaly told Tilieux that Egypt is proud of its historical relations with Belgium and interested in coordinating and exchanging views with Belgium on regional and international issues, which are of mutual interest to both countries.

Egypt is also looking forward to fostering parliamentary cooperation between Cairo and Brussels, Gebaly said.

Gebaly reviewed the latest political and economic achievements in Egypt. He explained Egypt's Vision 2030, which is a programme is based on achieving sustainable and comprehensive development, and creating competitive and balanced economy.

Gebaly also highlighted Egypt's efforts in combating terrorism, enhancing citizenship, and espousing the values of religious tolerance and equality in a troubled region.

Speaker of the Belgian Parliament Eliance Tilieux also stressed that Egypt and Belgium are two friendly countries and that her country is keen on strengthening relations with Egypt at all levels.

Gebaly’s speech before the PA-UFM's summit is expected to focus on climate change in the Mediterranean. In general, the issue of climate change will be the dominant one on the agenda of the PA-UFM's summit.

The Egyptian parliamentary delegation to the summit is also scheduled to participate in the meetings of the PA-UFM's committees on political affairs, security, human rights, socio-economic issues, women’s rights, energy and environment and education.