Wednesday 22 Jan

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Egypt seeks Belgian support for €4 billion EU aid package


Egypt seeks Belgian support for €4 billion EU aid package

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Immigration, Dr. Badr Abdelatty, held talks today in Brussels with Belgium Prime Minister Alexander De Croo. The talks covered bilateral relations and ways to enhance the European Union's support for the Egyptian economy.

During the meeting, the Minister of Foreign Affairs commended the strong bilateral relations between Egypt and Belgium. He expressed a keen desire to further strengthen economic, trade, and investment ties, capitalizing on the promising opportunities Egypt offers in sectors such as renewable energy, green hydrogen, port management, and logistics. He also emphasized the importance of enhancing cooperation in the areas of immigration and education.

Abdelatty expressed appreciation for Belgium's support for Egypt's interests within the European Union, particularly regarding the European financial package. He emphasized the aspiration for Belgium to continue its support for Egypt's successful implementation of the second tranche of the package, valued at 4 billion euros.

The Minister emphasized Egypt's strong commitment to recovering Egyptian antiquities illegally removed from the country. Recognizing the profound historical and cultural significance these antiquities hold for Egypt, he expressed hope for increased cooperation from Belgian authorities in returning these artifacts to their rightful home.

Abdelatty commended Belgium's support for the Palestinian cause. He also briefed the Belgian Prime Minister on Egypt's ongoing efforts, in collaboration with Qatar and the United States, to secure a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and facilitate the exchange of hostages and prisoners. He emphasized the critical importance of swift implementation of this agreement.