Strengthening ties: EU foreign policy chief heads to Egypt

European Union (EU) foreign policy chief Kaya Kallas is set to visit Egypt on Sunday for discussions with top officials, reinforcing the strategic partnership between the EU and the North African nation. 

The visit comes amid growing cooperation between the two sides on political, economic, and security matters.

Egypt has long been a key partner of the European Union in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, serving as a strategic bridge between Europe, Africa, and the Arab world. Over the years, relations between the EU and Egypt have been reinforced through trade agreements, financial support, and collaboration on regional security and migration policies.

During her visit, Kallas is expected to meet with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi and Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty to discuss various pressing issues, including economic cooperation, regional stability, and the ongoing humanitarian situation in Gaza. 

The discussions will also likely address the increasing role of Egypt in European energy security, as the EU seeks to diversify its natural gas supplies following geopolitical tensions with Russia.

EU Financial and Economic Support to Egypt

The European Union is one of Egypt's largest trading partners and a major source of financial aid and investment. In recent years, the EU has provided billions of euros in assistance, focusing on economic reform, job creation, and social development projects.

In December 2023, the EU announced a new financial package of €5 billion in macro-financial assistance to support Egypt’s economic resilience amid global inflationary pressures. Additionally, the European Investment Bank (EIB) has been actively funding infrastructure projects in Egypt, particularly in the energy, transport, and water sectors.

The EU also supports Egypt through the European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP), which promotes economic modernization, governance reforms, and sustainable development. Key sectors benefiting from EU funding include renewable energy, digital transformation, and vocational training.

Another major focus of Kallas' visit will be migration and border security, as Egypt plays a crucial role in controlling irregular migration flows towards Europe. The EU has allocated substantial financial aid to help Egypt manage its borders, prevent human trafficking, and improve refugee assistance programs.

In recent years, Egypt has worked closely with EU countries, particularly Italy and Greece, to combat illegal migration across the Mediterranean. Brussels has consistently praised Egypt’s efforts in curbing human smuggling networks and providing shelter to refugees fleeing conflicts in Africa and the Middle East.

Geopolitical and Regional Stability

Egypt’s influence in Middle Eastern geopolitics makes it a vital partner for the EU in diplomatic efforts to stabilize the region. With ongoing conflicts in Sudan, Libya, and Gaza, the EU sees Cairo as a key mediator that can help de-escalate tensions and promote peace initiatives.

Kaya Kallas’ visit to Egypt underscores the deepening EU-Egypt partnership at a time of geopolitical challenges.