Latest news with #AhmedAbuZeid
Al-Ahram Weekly
2 days ago
- Business
- Al-Ahram Weekly
Egypt, EU to host landmark summit before year's end: Cairo Ambassador to Brussels - Foreign Affairs
Egypt and the European Union (EU) are preparing for a landmark summit before the end of 2025, the first under their newly signed Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, Egypt's ambassador to Brussels, Ahmed Abu Zeid, said this week. The high-level meeting, he told Egyptian journalists in the Belgian capital, is expected to consolidate political and economic cooperation, unlock billions in European support, and affirm Egypt's stabilizing role in the region. Abu Zeid stated that the summit will help realign mutual priorities amid global instability and inject new momentum into Egypt-EU ties, a long-standing relationship rooted in the 2004 Association Agreement and significantly elevated in 2023 when Egypt became the first Middle East and North Africa (MENA) country to sign a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with the bloc. €5 billion package tied to IMF-backed reforms A cornerstone of the new partnership is a five billion euro EU financial package, pledged to support Egypt's economy amid global shocks, including the war in Ukraine, disruptions to Red Sea shipping, and soaring food and energy prices. The first billion euros were disbursed in 2024 as development and investment guarantees. The remaining four billion euros, approved by the European Parliament and Council in June, will be disbursed in phases starting later this year, conditional on the progress of economic reforms agreed with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Abu Zeid described the negotiations with EU institutions as 'long and arduous,' given the differing political agendas within the Commission, Council, and Parliament. But he said the disbursements are now firmly linked to Egypt's reform trajectory. 'Everyone must be completely comfortable that the economic reform path is on track, and that there's a comprehensive economic and financial reform programme in place,' he said. Strategic, not conditional—Egypt's messaging to Brussels While reiterating Egypt's openness to reform, Abu Zeid pushed back against suggestions of political conditionality. 'There are no conditions, and we have not observed any attempts to impose conditions,' he said. 'These are measures undertaken by the state for the benefit of its people. The state knows its responsibility towards its citizens and its accountability before parliament.,' he added, underscoring that economic and political reform is a national process. He noted that Egypt is fully aware that its partners are closely following this path, and therefore, 'we are not hiding anything.' Abu Zeid said Cairo is in near-daily contact with MEPs and parliamentary blocs to clarify Egypt's regional role, particularly its involvement in efforts to mediate wars and conflicts in Gaza, Sudan, Syria, and elsewhere. Over the past nine months, Egypt has hosted several European delegations—including MEPs, rapporteurs, and major bloc representatives—who met with officials, civil society, and human rights institutions to deepen their understanding of Egypt's political, economic, and social context and its challenges. Europe's interests in a stable southern Mediterranean Abu Zeid said the EU's strategic interest in Egypt is closely tied to migration management, energy cooperation, and regional security. The partnership is also framed within broader EU initiatives in the southern Mediterranean—such as the Union for the Mediterranean and the New Mediterranean Charter—focused on green transformation, labour mobility, youth, and infrastructure. He emphasized that there is strong awareness in Brussels that the stability of the southern Mediterranean is tied to the Middle East, which has significant implications in areas such as irregular migration and security threats. Abu Zeid said the MENA region presents clear investment opportunities, including in education, manufacturing, and supply chains. Egypt, he added, is viewed not only as a key regional strategic and security partner but also as a source of skilled labour, logistical advantage, and cultural capital. Tensions over Gaza, Israel, and EU fragmentation On the Israeli war on Gaza, Abu Zeid welcomed what he described as the EU's 'positive' emphasis on international and humanitarian law. However, he acknowledged internal divisions within the bloc that make it challenging to reach unified positions on Israel and the Palestinian issue. 'There is a review underway of EU-Israel relations under the Association Agreement, especially after some member states recognized that Israel is violating Article 2 on human rights,' he said. Egypt, he added, is pressing both bilaterally and through EU institutions for a firmer stance, including potential sanctions against Israeli extremists and settlers, in addition to a suspension of engagement. 'The daily human rights violations in Gaza must not be met with statements alone—they require concrete action,' he said, noting that 12 EU member states have already recognized Palestine, and others may follow. Discussions are also ongoing about a Gaza reconstruction and early recovery conference, which Egypt sees as a potential entry point for a ceasefire and longer-term political resolution. Abu Zeid said the EU is 'fully aware' that the two-state solution needs to move from rhetoric to policy, through an initiative led by the EU and its international partners. Culture, education, and Europe's shifting priorities Abu Zeid also stressed the importance of cultural diplomacy, particularly in Egypt's bilateral relations with Belgium, Luxembourg, and EU institutions. He cited significant efforts to spotlight Egypt's heritage, such as through cultural troupes and exhibitions linked to the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM). 'Five percent of our diplomatic goals are achieved automatically through cultural engagement,' he said. 'It signals to the other party that this is a country with history, civilization, and standing.' Education remains a priority area, with efforts to expand access to European programmes such as Erasmus+, Horizon Europe, and Talent Skills, while also improving recognition of Egyptian degrees in Europe. The Horizon Europe research agreement has been initialled, with a final signing expected by the end of the year. Egypt is also pushing to open more branches of European universities and launch joint degree programs with EU partners. 'Human capital is one of the six pillars of the strategic partnership between Egypt and the EU—and the key to long-term cooperation,' he said. Defence spending, NATO dialogue, and geopolitical constraints Abu Zeid warned, however, that rising global militarization is shifting European priorities. 'We are seeing increasing defence and security budgets, which are coming at the expense of soft power—education, culture, and development,' he said. Escalating geopolitical crises have driven the EU to adopt a new defence and security strategy and pushed NATO to raise its spending ceiling to five percent of national income, further shifting priorities across the continent. The EU and NATO have both launched new regional frameworks—the Mediterranean Charter and NATO's Southern Dialogue, respectively—designed to re-engage southern neighbours on issues ranging from terrorism and cross-border crime to maritime security and migration. Egypt is a member of NATO's Mediterranean Dialogue Group and has opted for 'balance' in its defence partnerships, avoiding entanglement in rival blocs. Cairo also maintains advanced defence relations with European countries and engages in political dialogue at multiple levels. Abu Zeid noted that all topics are open for discussion, and that higher-level engagement—whether through the Participation Council or at the summit level—often creates space for new areas of cooperation. Looking ahead: trade, investment, and the summit As part of growing economic ties, Abu Zeid noted that Belgium's foreign and trade minister visited Cairo in May and is expected to return early next year with a delegation of investors. He pointed to Egypt's proximity to European markets, skilled labour force, and economic incentives as key advantages. With Europe facing resource shortages and labour gaps due to diverted defence spending, 'this presents an opportunity for Egypt,' he said. The summit, scheduled before the end of the year, is expected to cap months of technical, political, and financial coordination—and, Abu Zeid hopes, usher in a new era of cooperation shaped by 'shared responsibility and mutual benefit.' Follow us on: Facebook Instagram Whatsapp Short link:
See - Sada Elbalad
5 days ago
- Politics
- See - Sada Elbalad
Abu Zeid: Egypt's Embassy in Belgium Supports Egyptians Abroad
Interview by Mohamed Wadie In light of the current circumstances facing Egypt and its communities abroad, Egyptian embassies serve as vital platforms for communication and strengthening relations between the state and its citizens around the world. Ambassador Ahmed Abu Zeid, Egypt's Ambassador to Belgium, spoke to us about the importance of engaging with Egyptian communities, preparations for the upcoming elections, and securing embassies amidst recent sabotage calls. The Importance of Communicating with Egyptian Communities Abroad Ambassador Ahmed Abu Zeid: At the embassy, we place great importance on communication with Egyptian communities abroad, especially during this sensitive phase. The number and composition of these communities vary from country to country; some nations have well-established Egyptian populations for decades, while others have smaller numbers. What we currently observe is the eagerness of these communities to play an active and tangible role in cooperation with the embassies, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Ministry of Immigration. We organize regular meetings with community representatives to clarify Egypt's situation—the challenges and opportunities—and to ensure the availability of consular services and address any issues citizens face. We also emphasize enhancing their participation in cultural activities and elections because they are an inseparable part of the nation. Election Preparation at the Embassy Ambassador Ahmed Abu Zeid: Preparation for the elections started early, and voting will take place at the embassy premises in two phases: the first round on August 1st and 2nd, and the second round on August 25th and 26th. We strive to provide a comfortable and secure environment for our citizens, ensuring all necessary services—from printing forms to others—are available to guarantee easy and smooth participation in the elections. Securing Embassies Amid Sabotage Threats Ambassador Ahmed Abu Zeid: Recently, we have faced some symbolic sabotage attempts promoted by certain groups seeking to exploit the political situation in Gaza against Egypt—which is making significant efforts as a mediator to improve the conditions there. These attempts have been met with complete rejection from local authorities, who have implemented strict security measures to protect embassies. We must stress that any attack on embassy premises is a criminal act punishable by law, and anyone attempting such actions will be apprehended and prosecuted. Egypt is keen on the safety of its missions and staff and works in full coordination with local authorities in the host countries. Coordinating and Activating the Activities of Egyptian Communities in Europe Ambassador Ahmed Abu Zeid: Communication is not limited to individual meetings; there are new initiatives such as the Union of Egyptian Entities in Europe, where community representatives from several countries gather to discuss common challenges, enhance coordination among themselves, and support relations with the European Union to promote the interests of Egyptians abroad. Ambassador Ahmed Abu Zeid affirms the embassy's and the Egyptian state's keenness to support their citizens abroad in various fields—political, cultural, and service-related—while providing the highest levels of security to them and diplomatic premises, and preserving Egypt's honorable image in international forums. read more Gold prices rise, 21 Karat at EGP 3685 NATO's Role in Israeli-Palestinian Conflict US Expresses 'Strong Opposition' to New Turkish Military Operation in Syria Shoukry Meets Director-General of FAO Lavrov: confrontation bet. nuclear powers must be avoided News Iran Summons French Ambassador over Foreign Minister Remarks News Aboul Gheit Condemns Israeli Escalation in West Bank News Greek PM: Athens Plays Key Role in Improving Energy Security in Region News One Person Injured in Explosion at Ukrainian Embassy in Madrid News Israeli-Linked Hadassah Clinic in Moscow Treats Wounded Iranian IRGC Fighters Arts & Culture "Jurassic World Rebirth" Gets Streaming Date News China Launches Largest Ever Aircraft Carrier Videos & Features Tragedy Overshadows MC Alger Championship Celebration: One Fan Dead, 11 Injured After Stadium Fall Lifestyle Get to Know 2025 Eid Al Adha Prayer Times in Egypt Arts & Culture South Korean Actress Kang Seo-ha Dies at 31 after Cancer Battle Business Egyptian Pound Undervalued by 30%, Says Goldman Sachs Sports Get to Know 2025 WWE Evolution Results News "Tensions Escalate: Iran Probes Allegations of Indian Tech Collaboration with Israeli Intelligence" Arts & Culture Hawass Foundation Launches 1st Course to Teach Ancient Egyptian Language
See - Sada Elbalad
5 days ago
- Business
- See - Sada Elbalad
Amb. Ahmed Abu Zeid: Egypt-EU Partnership as Model for Cooperation & Development in Middle East
Interview by Mohamed Wadie In the context of the extensive and complex relations between Egypt and the European Union, which have roots spanning decades, Ambassador Ahmed Abu Zeid's role in Brussels stands out as a central link between Cairo and Brussels. These relations, considered a model of comprehensive strategic partnership, cover diverse fields including economy, security, culture, and education. In our interview with Ambassador Ahmed Abu Zeid, we review the depth and dimensions of this partnership, highlight key milestones in its development, and discuss the challenges and opportunities it faces amid current geopolitical and economic changes. Egyptian-European Relations: A Historical Continuity and Diverse Fields of Cooperation Ambassador Ahmed Abu Zeid explains that the relations between Egypt and Europe are not a recent development but are deeply rooted historically and extend over many decades, covering numerous areas such as economy, security, culture, and migration. These relations were founded on the Egypt-European Partnership Agreement signed in 2004, which established specialized committees covering trade, transport, migration, as well as technological and educational issues. The importance of continuous political dialogue is also emphasized through the Joint Cooperation Council between the Egyptian Foreign Minister and the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. The Comprehensive Strategic Partnership: A Turning Point A decisive turning point came last year with the signing of the comprehensive strategic partnership, which elevated the level of relations between Egypt and the European Union to new heights. This partnership is granted to only a limited number of countries, confirming Egypt's importance as the first country in the Middle East and North Africa to receive this distinguished status, reflecting Egypt's pivotal role for the EU and vice versa. European Financial Support to Egypt: A Comprehensive Package for Economic Stability Ambassador Abu Zeid focuses on the financial support package decided by the EU for Egypt under this partnership, totaling 5 billion euros, including 1.8 billion euros in direct financial support, investment guarantees, and grants for migration projects amounting to 200 million euros. The package is divided into two tranches: the first tranche (1 billion euros) was disbursed at the end of last year, and the second (4 billion euros) was recently approved by the European Parliament and the European Council to begin disbursing before the end of this year. This support comes at a critical time amid global and regional economic crises, including food and energy crises and maritime security tensions affecting the Suez Canal and Egypt's economic returns. The disbursement is contingent on a comprehensive economic reform program done in cooperation with the IMF, which required extensive negotiations with European parliamentarians to ensure proper management that benefits Egypt and the region. Geopolitical Challenges and Their Impact on Egyptian-European Cooperation The ambassador points to regional and global challenges facing both Egypt and the EU, such as conflicts in the Middle East, peace crises, and the Russia-Ukraine war, which have caused disruptions in supply chains, energy, and food. These crises require multilateral diplomatic dialogue to maintain stability and peace, demonstrating the importance of the strategic partnership in confronting shared challenges. He also stresses the need for the European Parliament to understand Egypt's regional role in supporting peace and conflict resolution, which builds credibility and growing support for these relations. Future Prospects: The Upcoming Summit and Partnership Dynamics Egypt and the EU view the coming period as an opportunity to strengthen the partnership, especially with the first summit within the framework of the comprehensive strategic partnership, expected to create strong dynamics in relations and rearrange priorities and political, economic, and security interests for both parties. This summit comes at a time when the region and the world face complex challenges that require combined efforts amid financial and debt crises, international law challenges, and security and economic issues. This dialogue reflects a clear vision and confidence in the depth of the Egypt-EU partnership, founded on shared interests and mutual support in facing contemporary challenges. Ambassador Ahmed Abu Zeid, with his extensive diplomatic experience, provides an objective and comprehensive picture of today's Egypt-European relations and their vital future. read more Gold prices rise, 21 Karat at EGP 3685 NATO's Role in Israeli-Palestinian Conflict US Expresses 'Strong Opposition' to New Turkish Military Operation in Syria Shoukry Meets Director-General of FAO Lavrov: confrontation bet. nuclear powers must be avoided News Iran Summons French Ambassador over Foreign Minister Remarks News Aboul Gheit Condemns Israeli Escalation in West Bank News Greek PM: Athens Plays Key Role in Improving Energy Security in Region News One Person Injured in Explosion at Ukrainian Embassy in Madrid News Israeli-Linked Hadassah Clinic in Moscow Treats Wounded Iranian IRGC Fighters Arts & Culture "Jurassic World Rebirth" Gets Streaming Date News China Launches Largest Ever Aircraft Carrier Videos & Features Tragedy Overshadows MC Alger Championship Celebration: One Fan Dead, 11 Injured After Stadium Fall Lifestyle Get to Know 2025 Eid Al Adha Prayer Times in Egypt Arts & Culture South Korean Actress Kang Seo-ha Dies at 31 after Cancer Battle Business Egyptian Pound Undervalued by 30%, Says Goldman Sachs Sports Get to Know 2025 WWE Evolution Results News "Tensions Escalate: Iran Probes Allegations of Indian Tech Collaboration with Israeli Intelligence" Arts & Culture Hawass Foundation Launches 1st Course to Teach Ancient Egyptian Language
See - Sada Elbalad
5 days ago
- Politics
- See - Sada Elbalad
Interview with Ambassador Ahmed Abu Zeid... Egypt & EU: Strategic Partnership Built on Mutual Respect
Interview by Mohamed Wadie This interview with Ambassador Ahmed Abu Zeid, Egypt's ambassador to Brussels, unveils the robust strategic relationship between Egypt and the European Union. It covers the path of cooperation across multiple fields, including human rights, political reforms, Egypt's regional role, and Egypt's stance on the current developments in the Gaza Strip. The discussion highlights Egypt's efforts to present a clear, transparent picture of its national challenges and achievements, aiming to strengthen the partnership with the EU based on understanding and mutual respect. Egypt's Position on Human Rights and National Efforts Ambassador Abu Zeid emphasized that Egypt places human rights at the core of its national strategy. The country is working through institutional efforts and comprehensive monitoring, regularly receiving diverse delegations from the European Parliament and civil society to enhance transparency and provide insights into the political and social realities of the state. This reflects Egypt's national responsibility towards its citizens, done without any conditions imposed by its European partners. Political Reforms and Their Relation to EU Partnership The ambassador clarified that Egypt views political and economic reforms as internal national processes undertaken for the benefit of its people, not as outcomes of external conditions. He stressed that open cooperation exists with the EU through frequent visits by political delegations closely observing these reforms, aiming to enhance institutional and political cooperation within a comprehensive strategic partnership. Egypt's Regional Role as an Influential Partner in the Southern Mediterranean Ambassador Abu Zeid affirmed the EU's recognition of the intrinsic link between the security and stability of both the southern and northern Mediterranean regions. Egypt plays a pivotal role as a security and strategic partner, offering significant investment opportunities, a skilled workforce, and supply chains that support the European economy. Cooperation extends across education, green transition, and migration, within a multi-level partnership that fosters integration and collaboration. Egypt's Stance on the Gaza Crisis and Cooperation with the EU The ambassador expressed appreciation for the EU's supportive position on the Palestinian cause and respect for international humanitarian law but noted challenges stemming from differing member state positions within the EU. Egypt is actively encouraging a more effective European stance on the crisis by backing political solutions, overseeing humanitarian aid, and participating in Gaza's reconstruction and recovery efforts. He emphasized the importance of a ceasefire and resolving the Palestinian issue through the two-state solution initiative supported by the EU. Ambassador Ahmed Abu Zeid highlighted how both sides of the Egyptian-European partnership embrace constructive dialogue rooted in mutual cooperation and a deep understanding of each other's political and social specificities, within the framework of national interest and shared stakes in a vital region. read more Gold prices rise, 21 Karat at EGP 3685 NATO's Role in Israeli-Palestinian Conflict US Expresses 'Strong Opposition' to New Turkish Military Operation in Syria Shoukry Meets Director-General of FAO Lavrov: confrontation bet. nuclear powers must be avoided News Iran Summons French Ambassador over Foreign Minister Remarks News Aboul Gheit Condemns Israeli Escalation in West Bank News Greek PM: Athens Plays Key Role in Improving Energy Security in Region News One Person Injured in Explosion at Ukrainian Embassy in Madrid News Israeli-Linked Hadassah Clinic in Moscow Treats Wounded Iranian IRGC Fighters Arts & Culture "Jurassic World Rebirth" Gets Streaming Date News China Launches Largest Ever Aircraft Carrier Videos & Features Tragedy Overshadows MC Alger Championship Celebration: One Fan Dead, 11 Injured After Stadium Fall Lifestyle Get to Know 2025 Eid Al Adha Prayer Times in Egypt Arts & Culture South Korean Actress Kang Seo-ha Dies at 31 after Cancer Battle Business Egyptian Pound Undervalued by 30%, Says Goldman Sachs Sports Get to Know 2025 WWE Evolution Results News "Tensions Escalate: Iran Probes Allegations of Indian Tech Collaboration with Israeli Intelligence" Arts & Culture Hawass Foundation Launches 1st Course to Teach Ancient Egyptian Language
Russia Today
14-07-2025
- Russia Today
EU state returns 2,000-year-old sarcophagus to Egypt
Belgium has formally returned a roughly 2,000-year-old wooden sarcophagus to Egypt after a decade-long investigation and legal proceedings, authorities in Brussels announced on Friday. The move marked the latest in a series of repatriations of stolen cultural relics to the North African country in recent years. The artifact – dating back to Egypt's Ptolemaic era, when the country was ruled by a Greek dynasty – was recovered after authorities found it had been smuggled into Belgium via illegal art networks. It was seized in 2015 by customs after an Interpol alert from Cairo. The coffin had since been held at Brussels' Royal Museum of Art and History, pending legal verification. A statement from the Brussels Public Prosecutor's Office said the wooden sarcophagus, shaped in the image of a mummified male, 'undoubtedly belonged to a member of Egyptian high society.' It said the artifact's 'golden face and bluish hair are divine attributes, indicating that the deceased transformed into the form of the god Osiris, ruler of the underworld.' The hieroglyphs – ancient Egyptian pictorial script – carved on the sarcophagus helped identify the man once buried inside as Pa-di-Hor-pa-khered, it added. It was handed over to Egypt's ambassador to Belgium, Ahmed Abu Zeid, during a formal ceremony in the nation's capital on Friday. A ceremonial wooden beard was also returned. Belgian public prosecutor Julien Moinil hailed the restitution as 'truly an act of justice' coming 'after 10 years of investigation and proceedings.' The return comes as part of a broader campaign by Egyptian authorities to recover looted cultural property from European museums and academic collections. In May, France handed over seven rare artifacts —including a wooden statue of Anubis and ancient papyrus scrolls — following a Paris court ruling. Earlier, Germany returned 67 objects, among them a mummified foot, and funerary masks to Cairo. Ireland's University College Cork repatriated a painted wooden coffin, along with ritual jars and cartonnage fragments, after an agreement reached during Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi's state visit to Dublin last December.
