Egypt's foreign minister stresses need for Gaza deal's second phase

CAIRO – 5 December 2025: Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty affirmed to his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov, the importance of implementing United Nations Security Council Resolution 2803 and proceeding with the second phase of the U.S. president's peace plan for Gaza during a phone call Friday.

The two officials conducted a comprehensive review of bilateral relations and discussed regional and international issues of common interest.

Abdelatty and Lavrov noted the close and strategic relationship between Egypt and Russia, which is gaining increasing momentum across various areas of cooperation, particularly in the economic and trade sectors. Abdelatty expressed Egypt's pride in this strategic partnership, which serves as the governing framework for expanding bilateral cooperation.

The importance of continuing joint efforts was also emphasized for advancing ongoing cooperation projects, most notably the Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant. This landmark project is expected to significantly strengthen Russian investments in Egypt and expand overall bilateral engagement between the two nations.

Regarding developments in the Gaza Strip, the foreign minister reiterated the crucial importance of implementing the U.N. Security Council Resolution 2803 and advancing to the second phase of the U.S. president's peace plan. He further emphasized the necessity of enabling the international stabilization force to effectively carry out its mandate to consolidate the ceasefire.

Discussions also covered other regional flashpoints, including Sudan, where Abdelatty outlined Egypt's concerted efforts within the framework of the Quartet Mechanism aimed at halting the conflict and preserving the unity and integrity of the Sudanese state.

On Lebanon and Syria, Abdelatty reiterated Egypt's unwavering support for Lebanon's unity, sovereignty, security, and stability. He also reaffirmed Egypt's call for respect for Syria's territorial integrity and sovereignty, rejecting any actions or interventions that could undermine the country's stability, and stressing the need to activate a comprehensive political process that fulfills the aspirations of the Syrian people.

Addressing the Iranian nuclear file, the foreign minister emphasized the necessity of continuing efforts to de-escalate tensions, build trust, and create conditions conducive to a genuine opportunity for diplomatic solutions and the resumption of dialogue.

Finally, the ministers reviewed the latest developments in the Ukrainian crisis. Abdelatty reiterated Egypt's firm position calling for the continuation of efforts to reach peaceful settlements through dialogue and diplomatic means, thereby preserving international security and stability.