Egypt supports the new Euro-Mediterranean preferential rules of origin, according to Tarek Kabil, Egyptian minister of trade and industry, in his speech during the 10th Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) meeting held in the capital of Belgium, Brussels, on Monday, with the participation of nearly 43 trade ministers from member countries. He pointed out that several countries in the region still need a transitional phase in order to cope with the items of the new agreement and its implementation.

Kabil added that Egypt is strongly committed to enhancing its trade and economic relations with its neighbouring countries and partners from the UfM.

He also noted that this meeting is considered a new launching point for economic and trade relations between the European Union (EU) and the countries of East Europe and the southern Mediterranean.

“UfM countries have historical bonds with one another that were further enhanced with their existence on the sides of the Mediterranean, making these countries a single united entity with cooperation for one future and common interests,” Kabil added.

It is important to seek to create a stable and blooming trade zone on the shores of the Mediterranean, while taking into consideration the situation in Palestine and the suffering of the partners there to be part of international trade, Kabil said. He added that working in groups is currently necessary in order to reach a quick and tangible development out of respect to Palestine, which he said is a main part of the UfM.

The delegation that accompanied the minister of trade and industry at the UfM meeting included Egypt’s Ambassador to Belgium Khalid Al-Baqli, Adviser to the Minister of Foreign Affairs Magda Shahine, and others.