Egypt, UK discuss boosting trade, regional crises, water security

CAIRO – 12 August 2026: Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty and his British counterpart Ed Miliband discussed boosting economic and trade ties, regional developments, and water security during a phone call on Tuesday.

Abdelatty called for further developing economic, trade, and investment ties, facilitating Egyptian exports' access to the British market, and encouraging greater British direct investment in Egypt, the Egyptian foreign ministry said in a statement.

Gaza Peace Plan

The ministers emphasized the need for continued consultation and coordination on regional developments to support efforts to promote security and stability and resolve crises through political and diplomatic means.

On Gaza, Abdelatty and Miliband agreed on the importance of implementing the provisions of US President Donald Trump’s peace plan.

Abdelatty condemned serious Israeli violations in the West Bank and Gaza, saying they undermine prospects for regional security and stability and the Palestinian people’s legitimate aspirations.

Iran, Freedom of Navigation

Regarding Iran, the ministers agreed to continue joint efforts to advance diplomatic solutions and dialogue.

They urged all parties to pursue negotiations and avoid military escalation given the serious implications for regional security and stability, as well as energy security, freedom of navigation, supply chains, and international trade.

Abdelatty reaffirmed Egypt’s position on safeguarding the security and freedom of navigation in international waterways in accordance with international law.

Sudan Crisis

The Egyptian minister also briefed Miliband on Egypt’s efforts to contain the crisis in Sudan.

He reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment to Sudan’s unity, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national institutions, and its rejection of any action that could undermine them.

Abdelatty stressed the importance of intensifying international efforts to ensure safe and sustainable humanitarian access.

He also called for creating conditions for an inclusive, Sudanese-owned and Sudanese-led political process that preserves state institutions and safeguards Sudan’s unity and stability.

Nile Measures, Horn of Africa

The talks also addressed water security and developments in the Horn of Africa.

Abdelatty reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment to international law and the principles of cooperation and consensus among Nile Basin countries, while rejecting unilateral measures that harm the interests of downstream states.

He also stressed the importance of preserving security and stability in the Horn of Africa to strengthen Red Sea security and support stability and development across the region.

Bilateral Ties, Regional Stability

Miliband, for his part, praised Egypt’s efforts to support security and stability in the Middle East, reaffirming the UK’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Egypt.

He also expressed his country’s keenness on maintaining close coordination and consultation with Egypt and working jointly to support security and stability in the region.

Abdelatty conveyed President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi’s renewed congratulations to British Prime Minister Andy Burnham and congratulated Miliband on assuming his post.

He expressed Egypt’s readiness to continue working to strengthen bilateral relations and expand cooperation.