Egyptian Minister of Foreign Affairs Badr Abdelatty called for the resumption of US-Iranian negotiations and the completion of the first phase of the US President’s plan for Gaza during talks with Austrian Parliament Speaker Walter Rosenkranz in Vienna on Wednesday.
Briefing Rosenkranz on Cairo’s efforts to restore regional security, Abdelatty stressed the need for concerted international efforts to lower escalation and return to the negotiating track to contain tensions, according to a statement from the Egyptian foreign ministry.
Regarding the Gaza Strip, the minister emphasised the necessity of implementing the initial phase of the US plan to guarantee full access for humanitarian aid and to prepare conditions for subsequent phases.
During his official visit, Abdelatty also exchanged views with Rosenkranz on migration. The minister outlined Egypt’s success in preventing illegal migration to Europe from its coasts and highlighted the heavy economic burdens the government bears from hosting millions of refugees. He urged international burden-sharing and a comprehensive approach to tackle the economic and social root causes of migration.
The meeting also addressed counter-terrorism, with Abdelatty reviewing Egypt’s comprehensive strategy that integrates security, intellectual, and developmental aspects to address the root causes of extremism, enhance institutional coordination, and promote moderation and tolerance.
Addressing bilateral relations, Abdelatty stressed the importance of parliamentary diplomacy to advance ties. He praised the formation of an Austrian parliamentary friendship group with North African nations, including Egypt, and expressed a desire to establish a dedicated friendship group with Egypt. He also called for intensified mutual parliamentary visits.
Furthermore, the two officials expressed a shared interest in enhancing cooperation across education, culture, academic exchange programmes, renewable energy, green hydrogen, and information and communication technology.
Following the talks, Rosenkranz led Abdelatty on a tour of the historic Austrian parliament building, reviewing the history of the country’s legislative institution.
