Egypt’s Diplomatic Mastery: Guterres Hails Cairo as Pillar of Regional Stability
In a powerful affirmation of Egypt's standing on the world stage, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has lauded the nation's pivotal role in safeguarding regional security and stability. The commendation came during a high-level meeting with Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly in New York, a gathering that underscored Cairo's unwavering commitment to peace in a turbulent region.
The meeting, held on the sidelines of the 81st session of the UN General Assembly, was attended by Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty and Egypt's Permanent Representative to the UN, Ihab Awad. It served as a testament to the deep and enduring partnership between Egypt and the international body.
Guterres Praises Egypt's Balanced Role in Global Affairs
Guterres expressed profound appreciation for President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi's leadership and Egypt's balanced positions in addressing ongoing regional crises. From the complex situations in Lebanon, Sudan, and Yemen to the pressing developments in the Palestinian cause, the UN chief recognized Egypt's role as a stabilizing force. He echoed Cairo's call for prioritizing peaceful settlements and diplomatic solutions to contain hotspots of tension and establish a lasting, just peace.
Madbouly Champions UN Leadership and Reform
In turn, Prime Minister Madbouly conveyed President El-Sisi's greetings to Guterres, praising his decade-long leadership of the UN. Madbouly highlighted Guterres' navigation of the organization through difficult international circumstances and unprecedented polarization, particularly his historic and courageous stance on the war in the Gaza Strip and his firm opposition to Israeli violations of international resolutions. As Guterres' term concludes at the end of this year, Madbouly noted the significant legacy he will leave in international affairs.
The discussions also delved into enhancing cooperation, with Madbouly affirming Egypt's support for the UN chief's 'UN80' initiative. He stressed the necessity of ensuring member states retain ownership of the negotiation process and that the concerns of developing countries are fully considered. Madbouly reiterated Egypt's firm stance on reforming global financial institutions to be more just and equitable, ensuring that the review process is not used to reduce funding for the UN's development pillar.
Egypt's Firm Stance on Middle East Crises
On the Palestinian cause, Madbouly reiterated Cairo's firm position: a just, comprehensive, and lasting settlement in line with international resolutions. He stressed that lasting security can only be achieved through serious confidence-building measures and adherence to the peace process, paving the way for an independent and sovereign Palestinian state along the 4 June 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
Highlighting Egypt's intensive diplomatic efforts, Madbouly affirmed the nation's continued work to build comprehensive Palestinian national consensus and ensure the full, safe, and unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza. This, he noted, stems from Egypt's longstanding historical and humanitarian responsibility.
Before the meeting, Madbouly signed the organization's official protocol book and wrote a commemorative message. The visit marks a key moment in Egypt's leadership of the region, reinforcing its role as a cornerstone of stability and a voice of reason on the global stage.