Pakistan, Egypt Vow to Deepen Political, Economic and Security Cooperation

Islamabad, The Gulf Observer: Egyptian Foreign Minister Dr. Badr Ahmed Mohamed Abdelatty held wide-ranging talks with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Sunday after arriving at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for a two-day official visit to Pakistan.

Speaking at a joint press stakeout, Dar welcomed Dr. Abdelatty’s visit and underscored the “deep partnership and brotherly ties” between Pakistan and Egypt. He said the visit would help advance shared objectives and noted expanding cooperation in strategic sectors, including the economy and defence.

Dr. Abdelatty expressed gratitude for Pakistan’s hospitality and stressed the importance of collaboration in confronting regional and global challenges. He strongly condemned the recent terrorist attacks in Islamabad and Peshawar, extending condolences to the government and people of Pakistan for the lives lost.

Dar noted that the two sides held focused discussions on enhancing bilateral trade and strengthening business-to-business linkages. He announced that Pakistan will share a comprehensive list of 250 businesses across key economic sectors with Egypt for facilitation and cooperation, followed by an additional list of 250 companies six months later, bringing the total to 500 Pakistani firms engaged through this mechanism.

To further institutionalize private-sector engagement, Dar said a new Pak-Egypt Business Council will be established, alongside a Pak-Egypt Business Forum aimed at boosting commercial partnerships.

On educational and cultural cooperation, Dar confirmed that Egypt has agreed to double the number of scholarships for Pakistani students at Al-Azhar University in Cairo. He added that Egypt has expressed readiness to support Pakistan in agriculture, trade and investment, pharmaceuticals, public health, and efforts to counter extremism.

Describing the bilateral relationship as “strong and historic,” Dr. Abdelatty said the two countries have agreed to intensify political dialogue, economic cooperation, and defence collaboration. He reaffirmed Egypt’s support for Pakistan’s counterterrorism efforts and praised Islamabad’s consistent backing at multilateral forums.

The Egyptian foreign minister also acknowledged Pakistan’s role in the Gaza ceasefire process. He reiterated Egypt’s commitment to a UN-backed two-state solution, calling it the “practical and sustainable” path to peace, and expressed interest in Pakistan’s involvement in Gaza’s reconstruction efforts.

Dr. Abdelatty arrived in Pakistan on Saturday at the invitation of FM Dar. The visit underscores the longstanding and cordial relations between Pakistan and Egypt, grounded in shared faith, cultural affinity, and aligned positions on key regional and international issues.

Earlier this month, Dar and Dr. Abdelatty held a telephone conversation during which the Egyptian minister conveyed condolences over the recent terrorist attacks in Pakistan. They also discussed regional developments, including the situation in the Middle East and ongoing peace efforts for Gaza. Dar additionally held discussions with Oman’s Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr bin Hamad bin Hamood Al Busaidi on related matters.