Egypt and Yemen held a strategic dialogue at the ministerial level on Wednesday, reaffirming their commitment to bilateral cooperation and regional stability. Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry expressed Egypt's unwavering support for Yemen's legitimate government, the Presidential Leadership Council, and its pursuit of a comprehensive political solution aligned with international resolutions and initiatives. He emphasized Egypt's concern for Yemen's security and stability, recognising its significance for the wider Arab region and Red Sea security. Shoukry pledged Egypt's continued assistance in Yemen's infrastructure development and human resources rehabilitation. He highlighted Egypt's ongoing provision of medical and food aid, as well as its hosting of a large Yemeni population. Yemeni Foreign Minister Dr. Ahmed Awad bin Mubarak expressed his country's deep appreciation for Egypt's steadfast support and commended the historical ties between the two nations. He welcomed the outcomes of the senior officials' dialogue held earlier this week, particularly on bilateral relations and Red Sea security. Both sides voiced concern over escalating tensions in the Red Sea and its potential impact on navigation, trade, and the global economy. They called for international cooperation to address Yemen's worsening humanitarian crisis and urged financial support for UN relief programmes. The ministers reviewed developments in regional hotspots, including Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Libya. The ongoing conflict in Gaza and the dire humanitarian situation there were discussed extensively. Shoukry reiterated Egypt's rejection of Israel's military control over the Rafah crossing and warned of the escalating conflict's broader regional implications. Discussions also focused on reactivating the joint higher committee headed by the prime ministers of both countries, strengthening economic and investment cooperation, and exchanging expertise in diplomatic training. The foreign ministers concluded the dialogue by affirming the depth of Egyptian-Yemeni relations and their commitment to enhanced cooperation and coordination in pursuit of shared interests and regional stability.
