Egypt and the United States held talks on Sunday on advancing the second phase of Gaza ceasefire and on the need for a ceasefire in Sudan, as the two allies reviewed their strategic partnership and wider regional challenges.
The discussions took place during a meeting between Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty and US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau, focusing on political and economic cooperation alongside developments in Gaza, Sudan, the Horn of Africa and Egypt’s water security.
Gaza Ceasefire
On Gaza, Abdelatty stressed the importance of implementing commitments related to the second phase of US President Donald Trump’s ceasefire plan, a Foreign Ministry statement read.
He called for support for the national committee to administer Gaza recently formed under the plan and the deployment of an international stabilization force to monitor the ceasefire.
The foreign minister also called for the reopening of the Rafah crossing in both directions and a full Israeli withdrawal to enable early recovery and reconstruction.
Abdelatty welcomed Egypt’s participation in the Board of Peace and highlighted the role of the US president in brokering the Sharm El-Sheikh agreement.
Sudan Ceasefire
Turning to Sudan, Abdelatty stressed the need for reaching a humanitarian truce and establishing safe humanitarian corridors to pace the way for a comprehensive ceasefire.
He called for a Sudanese-owned political process and reaffirmed Egypt’s unwavering support for Sudan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and national institutions.
Somaliland Recognition
The talks also addressed the Horn of Africa, with Abdelatty warning that any recognition of the so-called Somaliland violates international law and threatens security in the region and the Red Sea, the statement said.
Water File
On water security, the minister reiterated that the Nile is a vital lifeline for the Egyptian people, who live in a state of severe water scarcity.
He said Cairo remains committed to serious and constructive cooperation with Nile Basin countries in line with international law, to achieve mutual interests without causing harm, while firmly rejecting unilateral actions.
Landau, for his part, praised the close ties between Egypt and the US and commended Cairo’s role in promoting regional security and stability.