Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov held a productive telephone conversation with Badr Abdelatty, the Foreign and Emigration Minister of the Arab Republic of Egypt, on December 22, 2024. The call was centered on a detailed exchange of views regarding key issues in the Middle East, with particular emphasis on the ongoing situation in Syria and the long-standing Palestinian-Israeli conflict.
Support for Syrian Stability
During the conversation, both Lavrov and Abdelatty underscored the importance of continued international efforts to stabilize Syria, a country that has endured a protracted civil conflict. They agreed on the need for the United Nations to play a central role in fostering peace and reconciliation in Syria, with a particular emphasis on the leadership of UN Secretary-General António Guterres and UN Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen.
The ministers reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that Syria’s sovereignty, independence, unity, and territorial integrity are preserved. In this regard, they called for an inclusive, Syrian-led political process in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2254, which outlines the steps for achieving a peaceful and democratic future for the Syrian people.
Palestinian-Israeli Conflict: Call for Immediate Ceasefire
In addition to the Syrian issue, Lavrov and Abdelatty discussed the escalating situation in the Gaza Strip and the broader Palestinian-Israeli conflict. The two leaders stressed the urgency of achieving a ceasefire in Gaza to halt the ongoing violence and prevent further loss of life. They called for the creation of conditions conducive to a just and lasting resolution to the Palestinian issue, based on widely accepted principles of international law.
Both ministers expressed their support for efforts to ensure the long-term stability and peace in the region, with a focus on promoting dialogue and cooperation between all parties involved. The need for a comprehensive approach to addressing the underlying causes of the conflict was emphasized, particularly in line with the framework provided by international law and relevant United Nations resolutions.
Strengthening Russia-Egypt Bilateral Cooperation
Aside from regional issues, Lavrov and Abdelatty also discussed the growing partnership between Russia and Egypt, with both leaders reaffirming their mutual commitment to expanding political, economic, cultural, and humanitarian ties. The ministers reviewed potential long-term projects aimed at further strengthening bilateral relations, with a focus on trade and economic cooperation, as well as collaboration in other strategic areas.
The two officials reiterated the importance of maintaining an intensive political dialogue between Moscow and Cairo, which has been instrumental in enhancing the overall stability of the Middle East and North Africa. They emphasized the shared interests of their countries in fostering peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.
Diplomatic Momentum in the Middle East
The conversation between Lavrov and Abdelatty reflects the strong diplomatic cooperation between Russia and Egypt, two key players in the Middle East. Their shared commitment to resolving regional conflicts through diplomatic and peaceful means underscores the ongoing efforts of both nations to promote stability in a region marked by volatility.
As both Russia and Egypt continue to navigate complex geopolitical challenges, their partnership is seen as crucial for advancing peace, security, and sustainable development in the Middle East and beyond.