Egyptian, Dutch FMs discuss strengthening bilateral relations, regional developments

Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty met with his Dutch counterpart Tom Berendsen on Friday, July 24, 2026, on the sidelines of the ASEAN Ministerial Meeting in Manila. The meeting aimed to bolster the progress seen in Egyptian-Dutch relations in recent years.

Abdelatty expressed Egypt's strong desire to enhance bilateral ties across multiple fields. He emphasized the importance of capitalizing on existing opportunities to strengthen economic relations and attract more Dutch investments. Key areas highlighted for potential investment included new economic zones, major national projects, port and infrastructure development, digitalization, artificial intelligence, and green hydrogen initiatives. Egypt also seeks to deepen cooperation on shared interests such as migration and water management, acknowledging the Netherlands' support within European Union institutions.

The two ministers engaged in a thorough discussion of regional issues, with a primary focus on the Palestinian cause. Abdelatty stressed the necessity of implementing the first phase of the US president’s plan, ensuring unimpeded humanitarian aid delivery to Gaza, and expediting the work of the committee managing the Strip. He also called for the swift deployment of an international stabilization force and an end to Israeli violations in the West Bank to prevent escalation and foster regional stability.

Discussions also touched upon the rapidly evolving situation in the wider region. Abdelatty underscored the need for de-escalation, prioritizing diplomacy and dialogue, and adherence to the memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran to resume negotiations. He briefed Berendsen on Egypt's extensive efforts to reduce regional tensions and stressed the importance of coordinated international action, given the severe economic, security, and geopolitical consequences of ongoing conflicts.