Egyptian, French FMs discuss means to de-escalate regional tensions

CAIRO – 4 June 2026:  Badr Abdelatty, Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Egyptians Abroad, had a phone call on Thursday with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot to discuss ways of strengthening the strategic partnership between Egypt and France, and to tackle the latest regional developments and efforts to de-escalate tensions across the Middle East.

The two ministers praised the strength and depth of the bilateral relations, especially following the elevation of ties to a strategic partnership. They expressed their commitment to further expanding cooperation across various sectors, with a particular focus on economic and trade relations.

They also highlighted the close relationship between the leaders of both countries and welcomed the recent visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to Egypt, which included the inauguration of Senghor University in Borg El-Arab City.

During the call, the ministers reviewed regional developments and ongoing efforts to contain escalating tensions. Abdelatty briefed his French counterpart on Egypt’s intensive diplomatic efforts to promote stability and prevent further escalation in the region, stressing the importance of prioritizing political and diplomatic solutions to ongoing crises.

The Egyptian Foreign Minister reaffirmed Egypt’s support for the negotiation track between the United States and Iran, describing it as an important mechanism for reducing tensions and advancing peaceful political solutions.

The two ministers also exchanged views on the situation in the Gaza Strip. Abdelatty emphasized the importance of completing the requirements of the first phase of the U.S.-proposed plan and moving forward with the implementation of the second phase. He further stressed the need for the National Committee for the Administration of the Gaza Strip to begin its work from within the territory and confirmed the necessity of the swift deployment of an international stabilization force.

At the conclusion of the call, the two ministers agreed to maintain close coordination and consultation within the framework of the Egypt-France strategic partnership and to continue working together to support regional security, stability, and de-escalation efforts.