Greek, Egyptian foreign ministers discuss bilateral ties, regional issues

ATHENS

Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis and his Egyptian counterpart Sameh Shoukry discussed bilateral relations and the latest regional developments in Cairo on Wednesday.

Speaking at a joint press conference, the top diplomats highlighted the strategic partnership between their two countries and their shared vision for regional peace, development and prosperity.

Gerapetritis said that discussions during the meeting focused on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the shared concern about it spreading to the wider region, and possible ways of cooperation to promote peace and security in the Eastern Mediterranean.

In a particular reference to Gaza, Gerapetritis drew attention to the humanitarian catastrophe in the besieged enclave and called for immediate and comprehensive actions.

“These steps should include providing basic goods for those in need as well as basic facilities for the local population,” he added.

Gerapetritis also reiterated the need to ensure that there will be no displacement in Gaza.

Consequently, he said, a detailed plan should be drawn up based on the decisions of the UN Security Council which suggests the formation of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital.

Turning to the recent escalation of tensions in the Red Sea, Gerapetritis emphasized that Greece remains the world’s leading ship-owning country.

He said that against this backdrop, Greece and Egypt are determined to cooperate and defend the freedom and safety of navigation in the Red Sea.

Gerapetritis, who arrived in Cairo on Tuesday evening after completing a two-day visit to Jordan, was received by President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi before his meeting with Shoukry.

He also met with Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Secretary-General of the League of Arab States.