Cairo: Minister of Foreign Affairs, Emigration and Expatriates Badr Abdelatty firmly asserted that any claims suggesting Egypt's regional role is being marginalized are entirely misguided and demonstrate a lack of understanding of the geo-strategic realities of the region.
According to State Information Service Egypt, Abdelatty responded to ongoing attempts by some foreign actors to sideline and undermine Egypt's influence in regional and international affairs, especially in relation to the Palestinian cause. He pointed to key factors underpinning Egypt's position, including its history, geography, demographics and above all, the leadership of President Abdel Fattah El Sisi, who steers the country's foreign policy with strategic clarity and foresight.
Abdelatty reaffirmed that Egypt will never hesitate to carry out its responsibilities, stating that Egypt's actions speak louder than words. He stressed that, without regional stability, Egypt cannot achieve the development it aspires to. "Moreover, Egypt has a moral and historical responsibility toward its brothers and sisters in Palestine, Sudan, Libya, Syria, Yemen and across the African continent."
He clarified that while Egypt's Rafah border crossing operates continuously, the Palestinian side of the crossing is under occupation and has been destroyed by Israeli forces. Abdelatty warned that both categories of critics, whether misguided or intentionally deceitful, ultimately serve Israel's interests by deflecting blame from the occupying power, which bears full responsibility for the catastrophic humanitarian and medical situation in Gaza.
Abdelatty asserted that the country maintains excellent relations with all key partners, especially the US, describing it as a strategic partner. He underscored that military cooperation between the two countries is both critical and robust, adding that Egypt is responsive to all arms deals as needed, since the challenges it faces are "unprecedented" and all partners are fully aware of this reality.
He noted that "neither in ancient history nor in modern or contemporary times have we faced similar challenges. The US clearly recognizes Egypt as a proactive regional actor and a center of regional stability." He described the global and regional environment as complex and fluid, with both regional and international systems still unsettled.
He stressed that Egypt's strong internal front, wise leadership, solid institutions and public awareness provide a firm foundation for conducting foreign policy amid such volatility. Egypt collaborates with other influential regional parties, including Turkey, and coordinates with neighbors around the Red Sea to govern the region's maritime security, noting that Egypt is one of the countries most affected by instability in the Red Sea.
Regarding Gaza ceasefire efforts, he said that Egypt will persist in its efforts, applying pressure until a lasting ceasefire is secured and the brutal, unprovoked violence ends. He highlighted specific initiatives being prepared for the post-conflict phase, including security arrangements for Gaza, sector governance and administrative management frameworks, all of which enjoy regional and international support.
Abdelatty emphasized that coordination with US special envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff continues before and after his visits to Gaza and Israel, describing the dialogue as long-standing and open-ended. He stressed that the primary objective remains reaching a ceasefire in Gaza. Abdelatty affirmed that Egypt continues to press strongly for both an urgent ceasefire and unrestricted humanitarian access to Gaza.
The minister also highlighted that Africa has become a top strategic priority for Egypt under the leadership of President Abdel Fattah El Sisi. He pointed to a comprehensive approach guiding Egypt's engagement with the continent, reflecting a broader vision beyond traditional water-related concerns. He noted that the economic dimension now plays a central role in Egypt's Africa strategy, focusing on creating new markets for Egyptian products, localizing industries such as pharmaceuticals and increasing both public and private investments across the continent.
Abdelatty explained that the foreign ministry is actively working to intensify Egypt's presence in Africa, supported by direct instructions from President Sisi. He cited official delegations that include major Egyptian companies and business leaders as part of economic diplomacy tours. He referenced a recent strategic tour across six West African nations in just five days, with participation from 30 Egyptian companies, alongside key ministries such as those of housing, petroleum and industry plus the Suez Canal Economic Zone.
Abdelatty underscored the importance of West and Central Africa, regions now seen as high-priority, while reaffirming the enduring strategic importance of the Horn of Africa and Nile Basin countries.