Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Egyptian Expatriates Badr Abdelatty welcomed the convening of the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) Economic Forum in Cairo on Tuesday, highlighting its focus on strengthening the private sector’s role as a key driver of sustainable economic development and growth across the region.

Abdelatty made the remarks during a meeting on Monday, October 19, 2026, with Fadi Hajali, Acting Secretary General of the Union for the Mediterranean, according to Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Nader Zaki.

The Foreign Minister said the forum comes at a critical time as the region faces unprecedented economic, security, and environmental challenges.

He underscored the need for UfM member states to intensify joint efforts to address these challenges and mitigate their negative impact on member countries.

The meeting also discussed ways to strengthen cooperation among UfM member states as a framework for collaboration between the two shores of the Mediterranean.

Abdelatty highlighted the importance of encouraging further joint projects and expressed Egypt’s readiness to deepen its engagement with the union, particularly in energy, water studies, and technological solutions.

The talks also addressed regional developments and ongoing efforts to restore calm and stability.

Abdelatty emphasized that the Palestinian issue remains at the heart of the region’s conflict, pointing to the international community’s responsibility to address the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip and ensure the unrestricted delivery of aid.

The two sides further discussed efforts to contain tensions and reduce escalation amid regional challenges affecting communities on both shores of the Mediterranean.