Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry met with Josep Borrell, the European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, on Sunday in Brussels to discuss the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and efforts to stop the Israeli war in the area, including Rafah.
The official spokesperson for the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Ahmed Abou Zeid, stated that the two sides discussed mechanisms to enhance the strategic partnership between Egypt and the European Union, including preparations for an investment conference scheduled for June.
Minister Shoukry traveled to the Belgian capital today, where he will participate in a joint meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council, along with several Arab foreign ministers and the Secretary-General of the Arab League, to discuss the situation in Gaza.
The EU has exhibited a complex and evolving stance toward the recent war in Gaza. EU leaders, after initial divisions, have united in calling for an immediate ceasefire and stressed the urgency of addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. This unified call came notably during a summit in Brussels, influenced by similar moves from the United States at the UN Security Coalition. The European Council emphasized the need for full and safe humanitarian access into Gaza to provide life-saving assistance amidst the catastrophic conditions there.
Simultaneously, the EU has also condemned Hamas’s actions and called for the unconditional release of all hostages. This demonstrates the EU’s balanced approach, condemning violence and addressing humanitarian needs. In a bid to aid the situation, the EU increased its humanitarian funding for Gaza significantly.