Egypt, UAE, Cyprus discuss US–Iran negotiations amid regional tensions

Egypt and Cyprus agreed to deepen coordination on regional security and energy cooperation during a phone call between their foreign ministers, amid continuing efforts to ease tensions across the Middle East.

Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty and his Cypriot counterpart Konstantinos Kombos discussed bilateral ties and regional developments during the conversation held on Monday, according to a statement from Egypt’s foreign ministry.

The two ministers praised the strong historical relations between Cairo and Nicosia, following the elevation of ties to a strategic partnership during Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi’s visit to Cyprus in April.

Abdelatty said Egypt was looking to strengthen coordination with Cyprus at all levels, particularly as Nicosia currently holds the presidency of the Council of the European Union. He also commended Cypriot support for Egypt within EU institutions.

The ministers discussed expanding economic and trade cooperation, including the implementation of a memorandum of understanding on the employment of Egyptian workers in Cyprus. Abdelatty additionally highlighted opportunities for transferring gas and energy supplies from Egypt to Europe, stressing the importance of linking Cypriot gas fields with Egyptian infrastructure.

The call also focused on regional developments and efforts to reduce tensions, including ongoing negotiations between the United States and Iran.

Abdelatty briefed Kombos on Egypt’s diplomatic efforts, conducted in coordination with regional partners, to prevent further escalation in the region. He stressed the need for intensified regional and international efforts to advance diplomatic solutions and avoid a new phase of instability.

Kombos expressed Cyprus’s appreciation for Egypt’s role in promoting de-escalation and regional stability. The two ministers agreed to maintain close consultation within the framework of the strategic partnership between the two countries and support efforts aimed at reducing tensions.

By Aghakazim Guliyev