Maintaining GCC-Egypt diplomatic links vital to regional security: Egyptian foreign minister
Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry underscored the criticality of Egypt's relations with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) members for regional stability during a meeting in Riyadh with his GCC counterparts.
Shoukry emphasized the necessity of political collaboration for addressing mutual concerns and the benefits of the strong socio-economic ties between Egypt and the GCC. He stressed the importance of these relationships in managing the Gaza Strip crisis.
Spokesperson Ahmed Abu Zeid stated Shoukry alerted of the severe humanitarian impacts if Israel conducts ground operations in Rafah and the risks it poses to regional security while urging Israel to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza.
The discussions also covered the threat of Iran-backed Houthi assaults on Red Sea shipping and the current situations in Libya, Sudan, Syria, and Somalia. Shoukry expressed frustration over Ethiopia's inflexible negotiations on the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, leading to Egypt's withdrawal from the talks.
GCC Secretary-General Jasem Al-Budaiwi highlighted the need for Arab unity in dealing with regional issues, including a ceasefire in Gaza and protecting the Nile's water security for Egypt and Sudan.