The regional crises in the Middle East and Central Africa have been dominating the subjects of the talks between Egypt’s President Abdel Fattal al-Sisi and head of the Spanish government Pedro Sánchez Pérez-Castejón in Madrid on 19 February 2025.
At the end of their closed-door meeting, the two leaders issued a joint statement on Euro-Mediterranean Relations at a time when the region is confronted with unprecedented challenges including irregular migration from Sub-Saharan Africa.
Both leaders commit their two countries to strengthening regional partnerships in areas of common interest such as trade and investment, transport, energy, migration, agriculture and fisheries, justice, security, and the promotion of intercultural dialogue.
On the crises rocking several countries in the Middle East both leaders reiterated their deep concern at the existing conflicts and the risk they represent for the whole region and beyond. They welcome the ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages and liberation of detainees.
Spain commended the role of Egypt as mediator and guarantor of the cease-fire agreement and both parties underscored the need for the ceasefire to become permanent, allowing for safe humanitarian aid distribution at scale and the release of the remaining hostages. Both countries commit to supporting the Palestinian Authority in providing basic services in Gaza and restoring security in preparation for reconstruction as the only unified government in charge of the stabilisation phase in Gaza and throughout the Palestinian territory.
They also agreed on working together to stabilise the situation in Lebanon and Syria and moves toward the reunification of Libyan military and security institutions, and underline the need for progress on the political and security spheres, including the full withdrawal of all foreign forces and mercenaries.
Their shared commitment also covers Africa and the security of the Red Sea, reaffirming their ongoing cooperation on water and food security, emphasising the critical importance of trans-boundary water cooperation in accordance with international law. They reiterated the importance of stability in Africa, namely, in the Sahel and the Horn of Africa, two regions that are of strategic significance for both countries.
They also resolved to maintaining the safety of international navigation in the Red Sea as a vital passage for global trade, in light of its direct impact on the Suez Canal and vital supply chains.
Spain commended the Egyptian efforts to bring stability in Sudan as both sides assert the necessity of respecting the unity and territorial integrity of the troubled country, and safeguarding its state institutions.
They also affirm the importance of launching a comprehensive political process, led and owned by the Sudanese political and civilian forces, without foreign dictations, to achieve the democratic aspirations of the Sudanese people.
WN/as/APA