CAIRO, Nov 15 (MENA) – Minister of Foreign Affairs, Emigration and Egyptian Expatriates Badr Abdelatty praised the relations between Egypt and Switzerland, marking their 90th anniversary this year.
He expressed hope for expanded cooperation in political, economic and commercial fields.
The remarks came during a meeting with Swiss Minister of Justice and Police Beat Jans where the two sides discussed ways to strengthen bilateral ties and consulted on regional and international issues of mutual interest.
Abdelatty welcomed cooperation in development, including the signing of a new Egypt-Switzerland cooperation program for 2025–2028, covering good governance, sustainable economic development and migration.
He also lauded the establishment of the Joint Economic Committee and Chamber of Commerce, which are expected to enhance trade and investment between the two countries.
The minister stressed the importance of increasing trade volume and encouraging Swiss investments in infrastructure sectors, such as railways and renewable energy.
He also highlighted Swiss participation in major national projects, including the Suez Canal Economic Zone and new urban developments.
Abdelatty further emphasized cooperation in technical education, vocational training and tourism, as well as migration, referring to Egypt’s efforts in combating irregular migration and hosting nearly 10 million foreigners.
He underscored the need to address migration at its root with a comprehensive approach considering security and development dimensions.
The minister reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment to preserving national heritage and recovering smuggled antiquities, noting that over 70 artifacts have been returned and that efforts continue to restore all stolen pieces, particularly in light of the opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum and other museums over the past decade.
Regarding regional developments, Abdelatty briefed the Swiss minister on Egypt’s efforts to consolidate the Sharm El Sheikh Peace Agreement, ensure full implementation of its provisions, achieve a lasting ceasefire and alleviate humanitarian suffering in Gaza.
Abdelatty stressed the importance of a ceasefire in Sudan and creating conditions for a comprehensive political process to safeguard Sudan’s unity, sovereignty and stability.
He condemned violations and atrocities in Al-Fashir, calling for international efforts to support the Sudanese people and national institutions.
For his part, Jans praised Egypt’s pivotal role in the region, including hosting the Sharm El Sheikh Peace Conference and commended Egypt’s contributions to regional security and stability.
He also expressed Switzerland’s appreciation for Egypt hosting large numbers of refugees and noted that bilateral cooperation on migration would strengthen ties and joint efforts to support vulnerable populations. (MENA)
