At the BRICS summit in Kazan, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira engaged with Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty to discuss pressing Middle Eastern conflicts, emphasizing the need for a ceasefire and humanitarian aid. They explored ways to bolster bilateral trade and investment opportunities within the framework of BRICS collaboration.
On Wednesday, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty engaged in discussions with his Russian and Brazilian counterparts during the BRICS summit held in Kazan, Russia. In his meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, Abdelatty addressed various aspects of bilateral cooperation, particularly joint development ventures. He also expressed Egypt’s apprehensions regarding the escalating tensions in the Middle East. “We exchanged views on the latest developments in Gaza and Lebanon, emphasising the deteriorating regional situation and the risk of the region sliding into a regional war that could destabilise the entire area,” Abdelatty disclosed. He underscored Egypt’s commitment to securing an immediate and enduring ceasefire, facilitating the release of hostages, and ensuring the provision of humanitarian aid. Furthermore, both ministers concurred on the urgent need to terminate the ongoing conflict in Gaza and Lebanon, asserting that a political resolution leading to the establishment of a Palestinian state is essential for regional stability. Additionally, Abdelatty and Lavrov deliberated upon enhancing bilateral cooperation and advancing trade, particularly in light of their respective BRICS memberships. In a separate engagement with Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira, Abdelatty explored avenues for boosting trade and investment between Egypt and Brazil. This included examining bilateral frameworks as well as opportunities offered through the BRICS group, notably advocating for the utilization of national currencies in trade transactions. “The ministers emphasised the importance of leveraging the expertise and resources available to both sides to expand access to regional and international markets, particularly in Africa, where Egypt enjoys a strong competitive advantage, especially after the entry into force of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement,” the Egyptian Foreign Ministry stated. Abdelatty and Vieira also reviewed the continuing developments in the Middle East, acknowledging the alarming prospects of the region descending into a broader conflict resulting from Israeli actions. They reiterated the necessity for a prompt ceasefire and the facilitation of humanitarian aid delivery. Furthermore, the two representatives discussed the subsequent actions regarding the Friends of Peace initiative, which Egypt endorsed at its inception during a ministerial meeting organized by China and Brazil in September, concerning the Ukrainian crisis during the UN General Assembly high-level segment in New York.
The BRICS summit, where the Egyptian Foreign Minister met with his counterparts, serves as a significant platform for discussion among emerging economies including Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. The ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon have raised international concern, necessitating dialogues focused on ceasefire efforts and humanitarian aid. Egypt, positioned strategically in the region, plays a critical role in mediating peace efforts and ensuring stability, which is paramount given the impacts of external conflicts on local communities and broader geopolitical dynamics. The discussions at the summit also reflect an increasing focus on trade, investment opportunities, and collaborative frameworks within the BRICS context.
The meetings between Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty and his Russian and Brazilian counterparts highlighted the urgent need for diplomatic dialogue aimed at addressing the escalating tensions in the Middle East, especially the crises in Gaza and Lebanon. Shared commitments to achieving ceasefires and facilitating humanitarian aid were underscored. Moreover, the discussions revealed a concerted effort to leverage BRICS membership to enhance bilateral trade and investment, enhancing Egypt’s role in fostering regional economic growth and stability.
Original Source: www.dailynewsegypt.com
