Al-alamein: Energy security and the bolstering of economic, trade, and investment cooperation were highlighted as central themes in the Joint Declaration issued by President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi of Egypt, President Nikos Christodoulides of Cyprus, and Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis of Greece during their meeting at the Trilateral Summit in Al-Alamein.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the declaration addressed a range of issues, including the Cyprus problem, the Palestinian issue, and matters related to Lebanon, Libya, migration, the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and water security. The leaders expressed pride in their historical ties and committed to promoting peace, security, and prosperity in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East.
Recognizing the geopolitical challenges in the Eastern Mediterranean, the leaders emphasized the necessity of ongoing consultation and coordination. They highlighted the success of the Trilateral Cooperation Mechanism since its inception in Cairo in 2014, emphasizing its role as a model for regional collaboration. The declaration underscored their shared commitment to regional stability, respect for international law, and peaceful dispute resolution.
The Joint Declaration also focused on the Cyprus issue, supporting UN efforts for a comprehensive settlement. The leaders reiterated the importance of a Two-State solution for the Palestinian people and expressed concern for the humanitarian situation in Gaza. They also called for the strengthening of Lebanese state institutions and support for Libya's sovereignty and political process.
On energy cooperation, the leaders emphasized the importance of projects like the GREGY interconnection, enhancing regional and European energy security. They also stressed cooperation in natural gas and water security, recognizing Egypt's reliance on the Nile River.
The declaration also highlighted economic cooperation, urging the translation of political relations into economic opportunities and advocating for partnerships in key areas. The leaders addressed irregular migration with a holistic approach and emphasized the importance of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between Egypt and the European Union.
Concluding the summit, the leaders reaffirmed their commitment to furthering the Trilateral Cooperation Mechanism and operationalizing a Permanent Secretariat in Nicosia. They expressed gratitude for Egypt's hosting of the summit and looked forward to the next meeting in Cyprus to continue their collaborative efforts for regional peace and prosperity.
