Egypt, EU hold first-ever summit to deepen ties on trade, security, and migration
On Wed, Oct 25, 2023, Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi participated in the inaugural EU-Egypt summit held in Brussels. This meeting marked a significant development in the relationship between Egypt and the European Union, focusing on security,…
On Wed, Oct 25, 2023, Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi participated in the inaugural EU-Egypt summit held in Brussels. This meeting marked a significant development in the relationship between Egypt and the European Union, focusing on security, trade, migration, and regional stability, particularly the ongoing situation in Gaza.
During the summit, President el-Sissi, along with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa, signed three key agreements. These agreements pertain to macro-financial assistance, support for reforms, and Egypt's association with Horizon Europe, the EU's primary research and innovation program.
President von der Leyen emphasized Egypt's strategic importance in the Mediterranean as geopolitical dynamics continue to shift. The European Union is actively working to enhance partnerships across the Mediterranean, crucial for managing migration, securing trade routes, and maintaining regional stability. The recently introduced “Pact for the Mediterranean” aims to foster closer cooperation with countries from Morocco to Turkey, in exchange for financial aid and migration control measures.
President el-Sissi highlighted Egypt's efforts to manage irregular migration, noting that Egypt has not allowed the departure of any boats since September 2016. Egypt currently hosts over 9.5 million foreigners displaced by regional instability. The EU remains Egypt's largest trading partner, and cooperation has strengthened with a €7.4 billion aid package announced by Brussels in 2023. This package aims to support Egypt's economy, addressing challenges like inflation, global crises, and the war in Gaza.
On Wed, Oct 25, 2023, Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi participated in the inaugural EU-Egypt summit held in Brussels.
The Egyptian economy has been adversely affected by reduced Suez Canal revenues, caused by shipping companies rerouting vessels due to Houthi rebel attacks in the Red Sea.
Migration is a major concern for both parties, with Egypt hosting millions of migrants and refugees from conflict-affected countries. The EU has recognized Egypt's efforts in halting migrant departures since 2016. Ahead of the summit, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas met with President el-Sissi to reaffirm cooperation on migration management. However, human rights organizations have urged the EU to address issues like arbitrary detentions and restrictions on free speech in Egypt.
Despite these challenges, both sides acknowledge the mutual benefits of enhanced engagement. For the EU, Egypt is a key partner in maintaining stability along its southern borders. For Egypt, closer ties with Brussels present vital economic opportunities and diplomatic support.
President el-Sissi is also scheduled to meet King Philippe I of Belgium, underscoring the expanding ties between Egypt and European nations.
Based on reporting by Africanews.
