ISLAMABAD: Egypt has called on Pakistan to contribute its expertise and resources for the reconstruction of Gaza, as both nations take steps to strengthen bilateral ties after more than a decade.
Speaking at a joint press conference with Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Egypt’s Foreign Minister Dr. Badr Ahmed Mohamed Abdelatty highlighted Cairo’s hope for Pakistan’s active participation in the upcoming international conference on Gaza’s early recovery and rebuilding.
Senator Dar said the discussions focused on regional developments, particularly the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. “Both countries are committed to addressing challenges in the region, with special attention to the situation in Gaza,” he noted.
The two nations are also reviving political consultations after 16 years, with the next round scheduled for the first quarter of 2026. In addition, a Pakistan Egypt Business Forum, co-chaired by both foreign ministers, will meet for the first time in Cairo in mid-2026 to promote trade, investment, and economic cooperation.
Dar explained that Pakistan will submit a list of 250 key businesses for collaboration with Egypt, to be followed by another 250 firms six months later, while Egypt will prepare a similar list. Both sides agreed to simplify visa procedures for businesspeople to facilitate stronger commercial ties.
On education and counter terrorism, Egypt announced it will double scholarships for Pakistani students at Al-Azhar University, focusing on religious studies to combat extremism. “These scholars and religious leaders will be trained in accordance with the Quran and Sunnah to help root out terrorism in Pakistan,” Dar said.
Dr. Abdelatty expressed Egypt’s condolences over recent terrorist attacks in Pakistan and reaffirmed full support for Pakistan’s anti-terrorism efforts. He also offered to share Egypt’s “holistic approach” to countering terrorism, combining security, socioeconomic development, and education through institutions like Al-Azhar University and Dar Al-Ifta.
Highlighting regional peace efforts, the Egyptian minister reaffirmed commitment to a two state solution based on the June 4, 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as the capital of a Palestinian state. He praised Pakistan’s “steadfast support” for a just resolution of the Palestinian issue and invited Islamabad to contribute to rebuilding Gaza’s infrastructure and lives.
Both countries agreed on concrete steps to expand trade, investment, and connectivity initiatives, encouraging Pakistani companies to explore business opportunities in Egypt.
