Cairo: Minister of Foreign Affairs, Emigration and Egyptian Expatriates Badr Abdelatty and his British counterpart David Lammy engaged in a phone conversation on Friday to discuss enhancing bilateral relations and the ongoing efforts to secure a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, along with facilitating humanitarian aid access to the region.

According to State Information Service Egypt, both ministers highlighted the significant progress in their countries' bilateral relations, aspiring to elevate them to a strategic partnership. Abdelatty reaffirmed Egypt's dedication to leveraging this momentum to enhance cooperation, particularly in economic, trade, and investment sectors.

Addressing the Gaza crisis, Abdelatty criticized Israel's policies and actions, labeling them as irresponsible and unacceptable, and emphasized the need for the international community to oppose them. He argued that Israel's recent actions violate international laws and norms, threatening to perpetuate violence and instability in the region, despite ongoing international efforts to halt the aggression and ensure humanitarian aid access to Gaza.

The British Foreign Minister, Lammy, acknowledged announcements by some Western nations, including the UK, regarding their potential recognition of the State of Palestine at the UN General Assembly session. He stated that recognizing a Palestinian state, based on the June 4, 1967 lines with East Jerusalem as its capital, is crucial for achieving regional peace and stability.

Abdelatty informed Lammy about efforts to deliver aid to Gaza amidst the dire humanitarian situation and urged the international community to pressure Israel to cease its detrimental policies against civilians. He also outlined plans for an early recovery and reconstruction conference for Gaza, in collaboration with the Palestinian government and the UN, contingent on a ceasefire agreement.

Lammy expressed his support and appreciation for Egypt's efforts towards resolving the crisis and aiding Gaza's recovery.