Egypt urges backing US-Iran talks, maintaining navigation freedom in talks with France

CAIRO – 10 May 2026: Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty stressed the importance of supporting negotiations between the United States and Iran as the only way to reduce escalation and end the war during talks with his French counterpart Jean-Noel Barrot in Egypt.

Their meeting came on the sidelines of the inauguration of Senghor University in Alexandria by President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and French President Emmanuel Macron on Saturday.

The two ministers reviewed developments in the negotiation track between Washington and Tehran as part of discussions on regional issues and ways to de-escalate tensions in the region.

Abdelatty also underscored the importance of maintaining freedom of navigation and taking into account the security concerns of Gulf Arab states, while reaffirming Egypt’s condemnation of unjustified attacks on Arab countries.

The ministers discussed bilateral ties between Egypt and France, praising the depth of relations following their elevation to a strategic partnership.

They expressed aspiration to enhance cooperation across various fields, particularly economic and trade sectors.

On the Palestinian cause, Abdelatty stressed the importance of implementing the commitments of the first phase of the US plan for Gaza and beginning implementation of the second phase.

As part of the plan, Abdelatty highlighted the importance of the national committee tasked with administering Gaza beginning its work from inside the enclave, while ensuring the swift deployment of the international stabilization force.

 

The talks additionally addressed the situation in Lebanon.

Abdelatty reaffirmed Egypt’s support for Lebanon and condemned repeated Israeli violations of Lebanese sovereignty.

He stressed the need to preserve Lebanon’s unity and territorial integrity and support national institutions in carrying out their responsibilities to maintain the country’s security and stability.

For his part, the French foreign minister praised the development in Egyptian-French relations across various sectors and expressed appreciation for Egypt’s efforts to contain escalation in the region.

The two ministers agreed to continue close coordination and consultation and work jointly to reduce escalation and support security and stability in the region.