Egypt and Turkey Strategically Align to Address Gaza Aid and Regional Stability
Egypt and Turkey’s foreign ministers have announced plans for a Strategic Cooperation Council meeting, focusing on Gaza aid and increasing bilateral trade. Both countries seek enhanced investment and support for Palestine while addressing regional issues, including Syria, Somalia, Sudan, and Libya. Their commitment reinforces a collaborative approach towards peace and humanitarian assistance in the region.
On Tuesday, Egyptian and Turkish foreign ministers discussed preparations for a Strategic Cooperation Council summit, scheduled for this year. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty emphasized the necessity for early recovery projects in Gaza, particularly focusing on clean water and medical aid, to ensure livability in the region. Minister Abdelatty highlighted the importance of Turkish assistance in Gaza’s reconstruction and announced Egypt’s intention to host an international conference concerning aid to Gaza.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan met with Minister Abdelatty in Ankara, coupled with a closed-door session that included Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. This meeting coincides with the centenary of diplomatic relations between Turkey and Egypt, emphasizing a positive trajectory in their bilateral relations, substantially evidenced by a rise in trade to $8.8 billion in 2024.
The foreign ministers pledged to enhance the investment climate for private sector enterprises in both nations, aspiring to increase bilateral trade to $15 billion. Their discussions also embraced the Gaza conflict, where both welcomed the recent ceasefire and commended efforts by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States to facilitate peace while affirming the necessity of increased international humanitarian aid to Gaza.
They reiterated the essential role of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) in aiding Palestinian refugees. Furthermore, they denounced actions that undermine UNRWA’s functionality and reaffirmed support for the Palestinian people’s rights. The ministers highlighted the need for a just peace between Palestine and Israel, advocating for the two-state solution based on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as the capital.
Regarding the situation in Syria, the ministers committed to its unity and territorial integrity, emphasizing the need for a thorough political process to support the Syrian population. They also stressed the importance of returning Syrian refugees in a dignified manner while addressing terrorism to maintain regional stability.
The ministers expressed their unwavering support for Somalia’s sovereignty and stability. They voiced concerns over the humanitarian consequences of ongoing conflict in Sudan and acknowledged the establishment of humanitarian corridors by the Sudanese Transitional Sovereignty Council. With respect to Libya, they reaffirmed their commitment to a UN-facilitated political process to maintain stability and sovereignty over the country.
Finally, both ministers reiterated their commitment to combating terrorism and addressing its root causes, endorsing a policy of zero tolerance towards terrorism and its supporters in the region.
The dialogue between Egypt and Turkey, marked by the announcement of a forthcoming Strategic Cooperation Council meeting, addresses significant regional issues, notably reconstruction efforts in Gaza and increased trade between the nations. This collaborative effort reflects a growing partnership that emphasizes humanitarian assistance, regional stability, and a commitment to maintaining peace in contentious areas, including Palestine and Syria, while fostering unity and integrity across broader regional conflicts.
The recent discussions between the foreign ministers of Egypt and Turkey highlight a collaborative approach to addressing pressing regional challenges. Their commitment to aid Gaza, bolster bilateral trade, and support Palestinian rights underscores their determination for enhanced cooperation. Additionally, their collective stance on various Middle Eastern conflicts signifies a progressive alignment towards regional stability and peace. Such initiatives aim to address humanitarian needs and foster improved relations based on mutual respect and understanding.
Original Source: www.dailynewsegypt.com
