OPEN// FM reaffirms Egypt's full support for efforts to restore security and stability in Lebanon

Middle East

22-04-2025

CAIRO, April 22 (MENA) - Foreign Affairs, Emigration and Expatriates Minister Badr Abdelatty reaffirmed Egypt's full support for efforts of Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam in restoring security and stability in Lebanon and fulfilling the aspirations of the Lebanese people.
Speaking at a joint press conference with his Lebanese counterpart Youssef Raji in Cairo on Tuesday, Abdelatty welcomed the Lebanese delegation, emphasizing the strong historical ties between the two countries, saying that their discussions focused on strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation in political, economic, trade, and cultural fields.
He said that the two sides agreed to advance cooperation in line with the directives of President Abdel Fattah El Sisi and his Lebanese counterpart, following their meeting during the Arab Summit in Cairo last March.
Abdelatty said that the Egyptian-Lebanese Higher Joint Committee will convene in Cairo this year under the co-chairmanship of both countries' prime ministers and mentioned that an official invitation has been sent from President Sisi to President Aoun for an upcoming visit to Egypt.
The visit by the Lebanese top diplomat today comes at a critical time marked by regional tensions, Abdelatty said, noting that they discussed the ongoing Israeli occupation of southern Lebanon and the recent Israeli aggression that caused significant civilian casualties and infrastructure destruction.
Both sides stressed during the talks the need for full implementation of UN Resolution 1701, including Israel's complete withdrawal from southern Lebanon and respect for Lebanese sovereignty, the minister said. They warned against the risks of renewed escalation and emphasized the importance of empowering the Lebanese army and institutions to fulfill their national responsibilities, he added.
The talks also addressed the need for international support in Lebanon's reconstruction efforts following recent destruction caused by Israeli assaults, Abdelatty said reiterating Egypt's unwavering support for Lebanon's government, institutions, and armed forces, particularly in enforcing law and security throughout the country.
Additionally, both sides discussed broader regional developments, including the situations in Syria, Gaza, and the West Bank amid continued Israeli aggression, the top Egyptian diplomat said. He highlighted Egypt's ongoing efforts, alongside Qatar and the US, to restore the ceasefire agreement reached on January 19, end the bloodshed in Gaza, and ensure the release of captives and prisoners, as well as the delivery of humanitarian aid.
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