The foreign minister and her Egyptian counterpart discuss strengthening relations and security in the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb.

Yemeni and Egyptian Foreign Ministers Discuss Strengthening Bilateral Relations

Cairo, Egypt – Dr. Afrah Al-Zouba, Yemen’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, met today with Dr. Badr Abdel-Aty, Egypt’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, to discuss the historical ties between their nations and explore ways to enhance collaboration.

Emphasizing Historical Ties

The meeting took place on the sidelines of the 166th regular session of the Arab League Council at the ministerial level. Both ministers emphasized the importance of building on the historical connections between Yemen and Egypt. They agreed to expand areas of cooperation and coordination, highlighting the need to arrange meetings for joint committees. Additionally, they discussed the urgent formation of a Yemeni-Egyptian Business Council to stimulate trade, investment, and economic exchange.

Addressing Regional Challenges

The two sides also addressed the challenges facing the region and their implications for the security of the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab. They acknowledged the economic repercussions these challenges pose for neighboring countries, particularly Egypt, and the impact on international trade. The ministers stressed the importance of enhancing coordination to stabilize the region and its vital maritime routes.

Shared Strategic Interests

Minister Al-Zouba underscored that the security of the Red Sea represents a shared strategic interest for both Yemen and Egypt. She noted that Bab al-Mandab and the Suez Canal form interconnected links within a single maritime corridor, making the stability of the southern Red Sea crucial for regional and international navigation and trade.

Concerns Over Houthi Escalation

Al-Zouba expressed concern over the recent Houthi escalation along the western coast and the militia’s attempts to expand into coastal areas. She described these actions as part of an Iranian agenda aimed at threatening Bab al-Mandab and using Yemen’s geography as a tool for regional pressure and extortion. She emphasized the need to empower neighboring countries, particularly Yemen, and to strengthen the capabilities of its institutions, especially the naval forces and coast guard.

Egypt’s Support for Yemen

In response, Minister Abdel-Aty reaffirmed Egypt’s unwavering support for the legitimate Yemeni government, the unity of Yemen, and the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country. He expressed Egypt’s commitment to assisting efforts that restore security and stability, preserve state institutions, and alleviate humanitarian suffering, all while meeting the aspirations of the Yemeni people.

This meeting highlights the ongoing collaboration between Yemen and Egypt, focusing on mutual interests and regional stability.

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