BAGHDAD, May 16 (MENA) - Egypt's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Emigration and Expatriates Badr Abdelatty confirmed that the preparatory ministerial meeting of the Council of the Arab League, ahead of the Arab Summit to be hosted by Iraq on Saturday, witnessed consensus on the issues to be raised for discussion by Arab leaders.

In an exclusive statement to Al-Qahera News Channel Thursday night, he stated that agreement had been reached on a draft resolution concerning the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip. Additionally, there was consensus on presenting a draft resolution in solidarity with Sudan.

He further noted that an agreement had been reached on a draft resolution concerning the Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, reaffirming solidarity with Egypt and its historical water rights. Arab ministers also agreed to propose a draft resolution regarding Syria, calling for an inclusive political process. Furthermore, a draft resolution concerning Yemen was approved, aimed at supporting legitimacy and ensuring the safety of international navigation.

Regarding the ceasefire agreement between Houthis in Yemen and the United States, the top diplomat emphasized that the deal is expected to have a positive impact on maritime navigation in the Red Sea. He added that international companies had expressed optimism following its announcement.

As for the Gaza ceasefire, he explained that a comprehensive presentation was made concerning Egypt's efforts, in collaboration with Qatar, to secure a ceasefire in the war- ravaged enclave, stressing that halting the systematic killings in Gaza remains a priority for Egypt.

The minister underscored the urgent need to facilitate the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza in light of the famine its people are being subjected to. He highlighted that Egypt’s mediation efforts are continuing in cooperation with Qatar and the United States to reach a ceasefire and noted that once a deal on the end of hostilities is achieved, Cairo will host an international reconstruction conference for Gaza.

He also pointed out that the United States has demonstrated a greater understanding of the catastrophic situation in Gaza. However, he emphasized that the main obstacle remains the absence of political will on the part of Israel to reach a ceasefire agreement.

He stated, “We are counting on the international community to intensify pressure on Israel to reach a ceasefire agreement and facilitate the release of detainees,” stressing that “Egypt’s mediation efforts have not ceased, but one party is blatantly violating international law.”

On another note, the minister emphasized that an inclusive political process in Syria would ensure protection for all its sects.

He also expressed concern over the escalating situation in Libya, noting that Egypt had previously warned of the fragile state of stability there. He affirmed that without the Libyan state’s establishment of its full authority, sustainable stability remains unattainable in Libya.
(MENA)
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