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Al-Ahram Weekly

FM Abdelatty, EU commissioner discuss latest developments in irregular migration - Foreign Affairs

Minister of Foreign Affairs Badr Abdelatty discussed the latest developments concerning irregular migration on Tuesday in a phone call with Magnus Brunner, the European Union (EU) Commissioner for Home Affairs and Migration. According to the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Minister Abdelatty congratulated Commissioner Brunner on assuming his new role within the European Commission. He highlighted Egypt's keen interest in strengthening cooperation with the EU in this crucial field, which presents a shared challenge for both sides. He emphasized the importance of addressing migration through a comprehensive approach that links migration to development while tackling the root causes of irregular migration. In this context, he pointed out Egypt's successful efforts in combating irregular migration, particularly in preventing all irregular migration boats from departing for Europe from Egypt since September 2016. The foreign minister also underscored Egypt's commitment to enhancing joint coordination to implement cooperative projects within the framework of the comprehensive strategic partnership, particularly in regular migration, by creating legal migration pathways and facilitating labour mobility. Additionally, he highlighted the importance of launching training and technical education programmes to equip Egyptian workers with the skills needed for the European labour market. He referenced the 'Towards a Holistic Approach to Labour Migration Governance and Labour Mobility in North Africa' (THAMM PLUS) programme, whose second phase was launched on 10 February. Given the European labour market's demand for various skills and professional specializations available in Egypt, this programme serves the mutual interests of both sides. Minister Abdelatty also shed light on the significant challenges and burdens Egypt faces as a host to nearly 10 million foreigners, including refugees and migrants. He stressed that Egypt's international support remains insufficient and does not adequately match the growing responsibilities the country continues to shoulder. Short link: