Egypt and Italy reaffirm the importance of a comprehensive and just settlement of the Palestinian issue
Cairo, Sept 3 (KUNA) -- Egypt and Italy stressed today the importance of a comprehensive and just settlement of the Palestinian issue, ensuring the Palestinian people their legitimate rights and their right to establish an independent state. This was stated during a joint press conference held by Egyptian Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Dr. Badr Abdelatty and Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Antonio Tajani, following the conclusion of their talks in Egypt’s new capital.
Abdelatty clarified that the discussions addressed regional issues, foremost among them the situation in Palestinian territories and the importance of working to implement the second phase of US President Donald Trump’s plan. He praised the cooperation between Egypt and Italy on several regional issues, highlighting consensus on the critical importance of preserving the territorial integrity of Libya and Sudan, and supporting the political process in both countries.
He added that the talks also covered the situation in Lebanon, given Italy’s role, emphasizing the paramount importance of safeguarding Lebanon’s security, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, as well as supporting its state institutions. Abdelatty strongly condemned all actions taken by the Israeli occupation, particularly the continued aggression against southern Lebanon and the ongoing occupation of Lebanese territories.
He noted that the discussions reaffirmed the importance of returning to the understanding reached between the United States and Iran, expressing appreciation for Egypt’s efforts to de-escalate tensions and promote political, peaceful, and diplomatic solutions.
Regarding the Nile River file, the Egyptian Foreign Minister described it as an existential issue and a matter of national security, stating that under no circumstances should Egypt’s water security be compromised. He stressed the full commitment to international law, particularly the principles of no significant harm and the rejection of unilateral measures.
He said the talks held today represented an important opportunity to evaluate the overall trajectory of Egyptian-Italian relations, assess progress made, and explore ways to broaden cooperation, both bilaterally and within the framework of Egypt’s partnership with the European Union.
He added that the holding of the first session of the Egyptian-Italian Joint Commission today marks a highly significant milestone in the bilateral relationship, serving as an important institutional mechanism to organize and deepen ties, follow up on agreed-upon items, and translate shared political will into practical and tangible projects and programs.
For his part, Tajani praised his country’s relations with Egypt, noting that his “extensive” dialogue with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi earlier today covered bilateral relations and regional issues. He explained that illegal migration was discussed, emphasizing Italy’s and Egypt’s commitment to combating irregular migration and human trafficking.
On regional issues, Tajani affirmed that “Italy always supports the establishment of a Palestinian state and condemns the violence perpetrated by Israeli settlers, who are supported by (Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin) Netanyahu, which hinders the establishment of a Palestinian state.”
He noted that freedom of navigation in the Red Sea and the Suez Canal was discussed, highlighting that about half of global trade passes through these waterways. He added that “the two countries agree on taking a constructive stance in the region to ensure freedom of navigation, and we will work toward the working group formed in Rome with the Arab League to address food security.”
He further stated that the water issue was discussed, describing it as “a matter of great importance for Egypt,” and expressed his belief that, in accordance with international law, a solution satisfying all parties must be found. He also mentioned his country’s readiness to play a mediating role to resolve the issue.
The Italian minister said his country supports all efforts undertaken by Cairo to reduce escalation and tensions in the Middle East, end wars, and advance efforts aimed at reaching a solution to the Libyan crisis.
Earlier today, President al-Sisi emphasized during his meeting with Tajani the vital importance of the Nile River issue to his country, describing it as the “main artery of life and a matter of national security,” and reaffirming Egypt’s legitimate right to protect its water and food security and its developmental interests. (End) a.s.m. / m.a.a.
