Cairo: The State Information Service (SIS), led by Ambassador Alaa Youssef, has released a new analytical study as part of its 'European Papers' series, identifying the primary issues that captured the attention of European Union institutions during March 2026.
According to State Information Service Egypt, the study monitored and analyzed official statements and decisions from various European institutions, revealing that Middle East issues were at the forefront of European decision-makers' priorities, followed by African affairs, and then European and international issues.
On Middle East affairs, the study addressed the US-Israeli conflict with Iran, noting the European Union's political and diplomatic efforts to prevent conflict escalation. The EU emphasized Iran's compliance with its nuclear commitments and cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency, while engaging with Gulf and Middle Eastern countries to mitigate the war's security and economic impacts, particularly on energy security and the Strait of Hormuz.
The study detailed the EU's political and diplomatic initiatives to stabilize the Middle East, along with increased communication with regional countries to support security and stabilize energy markets and maritime navigation. It also highlighted the development of Egyptian-European relations through the EU-Egypt Security and Defense Dialogue, addressing regional issues such as Gaza, Lebanon, Sudan, Syria, Libya, and the Red Sea, alongside cooperation in maritime security, counterterrorism, cybersecurity, and training Palestinian police forces.
European efforts to support stability in Lebanon and manage escalation repercussions were noted, with the EU reaffirming support for Lebanese institutions and the army, calling for the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701. Continued humanitarian aid to the region was announced, including financial support for healthcare, education, food, and shelter for several Arab states.
The Palestinian issue received significant attention, with the EU condemning West Bank violence and settler attacks on Palestinians. The EU urged Israeli authorities to prevent such attacks and ensure accountability. Concern over Gaza's humanitarian situation was expressed, calling for easier aid access, a ceasefire, and reconstruction support. The EU opposed a proposed law on executing Palestinian prisoners, citing human rights principles and international law.
Regarding African affairs, the study reviewed the European Union's observations of developments in African countries, support for political processes, development efforts, and stability, alongside cooperation in security, development, and demining. The study highlighted the enhanced European-African relations through the EU-Nigeria ministerial dialogue, emphasizing strategic partnership strengthening amid global changes.
In counterterrorism, the EU and the UK held their third Counterterrorism Dialogue, discussing terrorist threats, online extremism, and artificial intelligence use by extremist groups, along with private sector and civil society cooperation to enhance European security.
On a European level, the study highlighted the EU's focus on strengthening defense and technological capabilities, expanding security cooperation with international partners, and supporting efforts to combat terrorism and enhance cybersecurity. It also discussed the strategic and security dialogues between the EU and international powers like China, India, and Japan, reflecting Brussels' intent to expand international partnerships and coordinate on global security and geopolitical issues.