Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty spoke by telephone with Portuguese Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel on Friday evening to discuss strengthening bilateral relations and address recent regional developments including the situation in Gaza. During the call, Minister Abdelatty emphasised Egypt's commitment to enhancing its relationship with Portugal across political, economic, and cultural domains. He noted that February 25th marks the 50th anniversary of the resumption of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Abdelatty also expressed his eagerness for the second session of the joint committee, to be co-chaired by both foreign ministers, to further develop all facets of their bilateral relationship. He underlined the particular importance Egypt places on boosting trade relations and attracting foreign investment. The Foreign Minister also conveyed his appreciation for Portugal's support of Egypt within the European Union. He expressed hope for continued Portuguese support in implementing the strategic and comprehensive partnership between Egypt and the EU. He placed particular emphasis on the economic components, including the approval of the second tranche of the 4 billion euro European financial package for Egypt. Minister Abdelatty also welcomed Portugal's supportive position on the Palestinian issue. He reaffirmed Egypt's priority in solidifying the ceasefire agreement, implementing all its clauses and timelines, and addressing the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. He stressed that any post-conflict vision for Gaza must be based on the unity of the West Bank and Gaza Strip, and include the return of the Palestinian Authority to Gaza. He further emphasised the need for Palestinians to remain in Gaza during the early recovery and reconstruction phase. Abdelatty reiterated the need for the Palestinian people to regain their legitimate rights, primarily the right to self-determination and an independent, geographically contiguous state based on the June 4, 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital, in accordance with international law.
