Egypt’s FM stresses need for concerted efforts to de-escalate regional tensions

CAIRO – 3 February 2026: Egypt’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Immigration, and Egyptian Expatriates, Badr Abdelatty, received a phone call on Tuesday from his Portuguese counterpart, Paulo Rangel, to discuss strengthening bilateral relations and exchanging views on regional developments.

Ambassador Tamim Khallaf, the official spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated that during the call, Minister Abdelatty expressed his keenness to elevate bilateral relations in the political, economic, and cultural fields.

He emphasized a commitment to developing these ties in a manner that serves common interests, particularly as the 50th anniversary of the resumption of diplomatic relations between Egypt and Portugal approaches.

Minister Abdelatty noted the importance of maintaining the current pace of cooperation and holding the next session of the Joint Committee this year to lay the foundation for future collaboration.

He also expressed hope for a Portuguese trade mission to Cairo to boost trade relations and work toward holding the second edition of the Partnership for Investment Forum. Additionally, he welcomed the ongoing cooperation between the two countries in recovering smuggled Egyptian antiquities.

Regarding regional developments, the Egyptian Foreign Minister praised Portugal's historic decision to recognize the State of Palestine.

He emphasized the need for concerted regional and international efforts to implement the second phase of the current U.S. peace plan, support the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza, and expedite the deployment of an international stabilization force to monitor the ceasefire.

He also stressed the importance of ensuring the unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid to pave the way for early recovery and reconstruction.

Minister Abdelatty further emphasized the necessity of de-escalating regional tensions by strengthening political and diplomatic channels to prevent crises from expanding and to safeguard stability.

Finally, he noted the importance of creating a conducive environment for resuming dialogue between the United States and Iran regarding the Iranian nuclear program, aiming for a comprehensive settlement that considers the interests of all parties and supports international security.