Egypt, Norway Discuss Strengthening Bilateral Ties, Regional Crises at Oslo Forum
Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty held talks with his Norwegian counterpart, Espen Barth Eide, on the sidelines of the Oslo Forum, focusing on enhancing bilateral cooperation and addressing regional developments in Gaza and Sudan.
The meeting underscored the growing momentum in Egyptian-Norwegian relations, with Abdel Aaty praising recent political and economic progress between the two nations.
He highlighted the ongoing dialogue at the highest levels, including President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi's visit to Norway in December 2024, and welcomed the launch of regular political consultations, as agreed upon during that visit.
Abdelatty emphasized Egypt's interest in strengthening economic collaboration, particularly in renewable energy. He expressed appreciation for the efforts of Norwegian company Scatec in Egypt and looked forward to the implementation of new joint projects that would boost Norwegian investment in the country.
Trade between the two nations was another focal point, with Abdel Aaty encouraging the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (Norad) and the Norwegian Investment Fund for Developing Countries (Norfund) to consider increasing their financial support for Norwegian companies operating in Egypt, particularly in clean energy and aquaculture sectors. He noted that these efforts would benefit from Egypt's recent economic reforms.
The Egyptian minister also voiced interest in expanding trilateral cooperation in Africa, citing Norway's strategic engagement with the continent following the launch of its Africa Strategy in August 2024.
On regional issues, both ministers exchanged views on the situation in Gaza. Abdel Aaty commended Norway's long-standing support for Palestinian rights and international law, and outlined Egypt's intensive efforts to broker a ceasefire, facilitate humanitarian aid, and mitigate the worsening humanitarian crisis in the besieged enclave.
He reiterated Egypt's firm position on the Palestinian cause, advocating for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state along the June 4, 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
Regarding Sudan, Abdel Aaty reaffirmed Egypt's support for the unity and stability of its southern neighbor. He stressed the importance of safeguarding Sudan's national institutions, sovereignty, and territorial integrity amid the ongoing conflict.
The meeting reflected both countries' shared commitment to deepening cooperation and addressing regional challenges through diplomacy and sustainable development.
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