Cypriot FM says Egypt is 'strategic partner of EU' and a pillar of mediterranean security

CAIRO - 16 June 2026: Cypriot Foreign Minister Constantinos Koumbous described Egypt as a "strategic partner of the European Union," a cornerstone of security in the Mediterranean and Eastern Mediterranean region, and a key player in combating irregular migration and terrorism.

 

These remarks were made by Koumbous following the 11th meeting of the Egypt-EU Association Council, held in Luxembourg, and reported by the Cypriot newspaper Cyprus Mail.

 

The Cypriot minister expressed his satisfaction with the meeting's outcomes, praising the level of coordination between Cairo and Brussels on vital issues, particularly irregular migration and counterterrorism, as well as economic and security cooperation.

 

Koumbous stressed the need for the European Commission to strengthen relations with Cairo through a broader strategic agreement, with more effective use of available funding to support the bilateral partnership. He emphasized the importance of moving from sectoral cooperation to a comprehensive partnership covering various fields.

 

The Cypriot minister's remarks come at a time when the Eastern Mediterranean region is facing escalating security challenges, particularly in light of recent regional tensions following the war with Iran, thus reinforcing Egypt's role as a pillar of stability in the region.