Egypt, EU Consult on Multilateral Issues, UN Reform

Egypt and the European Union convened for a round of consultations focused on multilateral issues, co-chaired by Amr al-Sherbiny, Egypt's Assistant Foreign Minister for Multilateral Affairs and International Security, and Martin Bille Hermann, the European External Action Service's Managing Director for Multilateral Relations, Human Rights, and Democracy.

The meetings, held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the New Capital, addressed key topics within the United Nations and other international bodies. Discussions included ongoing efforts and initiatives related to UN reform, the potential expansion of the Security Council, and disarmament. Both sides also reviewed developments in UN peacekeeping operations and peacebuilding initiatives.

Egypt's role in facilitating the 2025 Review of the UN Peacebuilding Architecture was specifically commended, particularly its contribution to the adoption of twin Security Council and General Assembly resolutions on the review process. The consultations also touched upon UNESCO-related matters, with the European side congratulating Egypt on Dr. Khaled al-Enany's election as UNESCO Director-General. Both parties emphasized the importance of joint coordination to strengthen UNESCO's mission in preserving cultural heritage.

The consultations revealed a convergence of views, with both Egypt and the EU reaffirming the United Nations' crucial role in the global multilateral system, especially in maintaining international peace, security, and supporting development. They stressed the significance of preserving the organization's intergovernmental nature, emphasizing member states' ownership and leadership in all initiatives. The two sides concluded by agreeing to hold these consultative meetings regularly to continue coordinating on multilateral issues.