Egypt Stresses Importance Of Full Implementation Of Gaza Ceasefire And Humanitarian Aid Delivery

Egypt’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Emigration and Egyptian Expatriates Affairs, Badr Abdelatty, has highlighted the necessity of implementing the ceasefire agreement in Gaza accurately. He emphasised maintaining the ceasefire, releasing all Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners, and ensuring uninterrupted humanitarian aid. Speaking alongside European Commissioner for the Mediterranean Dubravka Šuica in Cairo, he stressed the urgency of starting negotiations for the next phase.

Abdelatty noted that Egypt, Qatar, and the United States are actively involved in these efforts. He stated, "We must begin discussions on the second phase," highlighting the European Union's strategic role in providing economic support and political pressure to ensure adherence to the agreement. The minister also called for a political process to establish a Palestinian state following the ceasefire.

The Egyptian minister urged all parties to meet their obligations by delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza without using it as a punitive measure against Palestinians. He mentioned that sustaining the ceasefire should lead to a political process aimed at establishing a Palestinian state. Abdelatty also announced that Gaza's reconstruction plan would be presented at an upcoming Arab emergency summit.

Šuica expressed optimism about endorsing the reconstruction plan at the Arab summit. She stated, "We are investing in multilateral programmes to empower Palestinians and keep Gaza on the map." Her comments reflect a commitment to supporting Gaza's development through international cooperation.

The Egyptian minister revealed plans for discussions with the European Union and donor countries to secure international backing for Gaza's reconstruction. An emergency ministerial meeting of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation will be held to approve outcomes related to this plan. These efforts aim to gather global support for rebuilding efforts in Gaza.

Šuica commented on Israel’s non-compliance with the ceasefire agreement, expressing hope that adherence would pave the way for a two-state solution supported by the EU without preconditions. She also underscored Gaza’s reconstruction importance, hoping for a resolution soon.

The Egyptian minister reiterated that goodwill from all parties is crucial for successful negotiations. He believes that sustained cooperation can lead to positive outcomes in implementing agreements and achieving peace in the region.

With inputs from WAM