German Development Min. Holds High-Level Talks in Egypt on Gaza Reconstruction
The German Federal Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development, Reem Alabali-Radovan, arrived in Cairo today (Sunday) to hold critical talks with the Egyptian government on the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip, according to a statement from the Embassy of Germany in Egypt.
The visit comes in the wake of a recent Arab-led proposal for the future of Gaza, which has suffered immense destruction amid ongoing conflict. Egypt has played a central role in shaping this regional initiative.
In a statement released ahead of her meetings, Minister Alabali-Radovan said: 'The Arab plan offers a realistic path toward rebuilding Gaza. It could serve as a strong starting point to give the people of Gaza renewed hope. As Germany's Development Minister, I want to be engaged from the early stages. Germany will also contribute to Gaza's reconstruction. Even though the situation remains catastrophic, we must begin discussing how to make this enormous task a success.'
She stressed that several key conditions are necessary for meaningful progress: a secure humanitarian situation, a permanent ceasefire, and a political framework that supports long-term peace and security.
'There must be no role for Hamas in Gaza and no threat to Israel. Forced displacement, land reduction, or expulsions in Gaza or the West Bank are unacceptable,' she added.
During her visit, the Minister is scheduled to hold talks with Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty, Minister of International Cooperation Rania Al-Mashat, and Arab League Deputy Secretary-General Hossam Zaki. The discussions will focus on the implementation of the Arab reconstruction plan and the potential support from Germany's Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).
The embassy emphasized that rebuilding Gaza is a monumental, decade-long mission that requires close coordination and burden-sharing among the international community, including regional partners and the United Nations.
Once conditions on the ground allow, BMZ is prepared to launch immediate relief projects, such as restoring water and energy supplies and providing temporary housing. The Ministry has previously contributed to development in Gaza, notably in drinking water access, wastewater infrastructure, and sustainable economic development.
'Reconstruction must be part of a broader, negotiated process toward a two-state solution,' the German embassy concluded.
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