Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdel-Aty praised the positive developments in Egypt-Norway relations, both politically and economically, noting the recent meetings and communications between President Abdel Fattah El Sisi and the Norwegian Prime Minister, including Sisi's visit to Norway in December 2024. During his meeting on Thursday with Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide on the sidelines of the Oslo Forum, Abdel-Aty welcomed plans to hold a round of political consultations between the two countries. The talks will activate the memorandum of understanding signed during the presidential visit. He expressed Egypt's keenness to maintain regular political dialogue at all levels to further enhance bilateral relations. Abdel-Aty also welcomed increased economic cooperation, particularly in renewable energy. He voiced hope for the completion of current projects by Norwegian firm Scatec in Egypt and the launch of new ventures to boost Norwegian investment. He stressed the need to strengthen trade exchange and encouraged both the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation and the Norwegian Investment Fund for Developing Countries to consider expanding their financial support for existing and new Norwegian companies operating in Egypt, especially in clean energy and aquaculture. He highlighted Egypt's recent economic reforms and called for exploring opportunities for trilateral cooperation in Africa, in light of Norway's August 2024 strategy for the continent. The two ministers also exchanged views on regional issues, particularly the situation in Gaza. Abdel-Aty commended Norway's support for Palestinian rights and its commitment to international law. He outlined Egypt's efforts to secure a ceasefire and facilitate humanitarian aid access, stressing the importance of intensified international efforts to ensure Palestinians obtain their legitimate rights, foremost among them the establishment of an independent state along the June 4, 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital. On Sudan, Abdel-Aty reaffirmed Egypt's support for the unity, stability, and sovereignty of Sudan and its national institutions. Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English Subediting: M. S. Salama
