Copyright egyptindependent
BRUSSELS, Oct 22 (MENA) – European Council President António Costa said Egypt plays a pivotal role in promoting stability and resolving conflicts in the region, praising President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi’s mediation efforts that helped achieve the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal. Speaking at a joint news conference with Sisi and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen after the first EU–Egypt summit in Brussels, Costa said the truce had revived hope for Palestinians and enabled the return of Israeli hostages. He urged all parties to act in good faith to sustain the ceasefire and ensure the flow of humanitarian aid, stressing the need for a lasting peace based on a two-state solution. The EU, he added, stands ready to assist in reconstruction and recovery efforts. Costa highlighted growing EU–Egypt cooperation in trade, security, migration, energy and education, describing the summit as “a milestone in our partnership.” He also welcomed Egypt’s accession to the Horizon Europe research program. The EU and Egypt, he said, share common concerns over Libya, Sudan, and Somalia, and will deepen dialogue on regional security, including maritime safety in the Red Sea, Suez Canal, and Mediterranean. Costa reaffirmed that the partnership rests on mutual respect and shared values, and said the EU continues to support a rules-based international order. He also noted that the bloc backs ongoing peace efforts over Ukraine and values Egypt’s role as a key international partner.
