CAIRO: Pakistan and Egypt have agreed to further enhance their political, defence, and economic cooperation, while reaffirming their joint commitment to fight terrorism.
The understanding was reached during a high-level meeting and joint press conference held in Islamabad between Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty.
Speaking at the press conference, Ishaq Dar warmly welcomed the Egyptian foreign minister to Pakistan and said the visit would play an important role in deepening bilateral relations.
He stated that both countries had agreed to strengthen political dialogue, expand economic partnership, and enhance cooperation in defence and other key sectors.
He added that Pakistan considers Egypt a trusted partner in the Muslim world.
The foreign minister revealed that Pakistan would soon share a list of 250 leading business groups with Egypt, representing various sectors of the economy.
After six months, another 250 companies would be added to this list. He also announced the formation of a Pakistan-Egypt Business Forum, with its first meeting scheduled to be held in Egypt.
Ishaq Dar further said that discussions were held on regional and international developments, including the situation in Gaza, Jammu and Kashmir, and Afghanistan.
He also announced that Egypt has decided to double the number of scholarships for Pakistani students, particularly at Al-Azhar University.
Addressing the media, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty strongly condemned recent terrorist attacks in Islamabad and Peshawar and expressed his condolences to the government and people of Pakistan over the loss of lives.
He said Egypt stands firmly with Pakistan in the fight against terrorism and will fully cooperate in countering terrorism and extremism.
The Egyptian foreign minister highlighted the long-standing and historic relationship between Pakistan and Egypt, stating that their friendship is based on mutual respect and shared interests.
He said both nations had agreed to expand cooperation in political, economic, defence, and security sectors, increase bilateral trade, and promote joint investment.
He added that Egypt is keen to enhance collaboration with Pakistan in agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and livestock.
He also praised Pakistan’s consistent support for Egypt at international forums and appreciated Pakistan’s role in the Gaza ceasefire efforts.
He expressed Egypt’s desire for Pakistan’s cooperation in the reconstruction of Gaza and reiterated Egypt’s position that the Palestine issue must be resolved in accordance with United Nations resolutions through a two-state solution.
Earlier, upon his arrival at the Foreign Office, the Egyptian foreign minister was warmly received by Ishaq Dar.
The two leaders held delegation-level talks focused on strengthening cooperation in multiple sectors including economy and defence.
During the meeting, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to further solidifying bilateral relations and jointly addressing shared regional and security challenges.
