CAIRO, May 12 (MENA) - Minister of Foreign Affairs, Emigration and Expatriates Badr Abdelatty on Monday telephoned his new German counterpart Johann Wadephul, marking their first contact since the new German government's formation.

Abdelatty congratulated Wadephul and highlighted the strong bilateral ties exemplified by the president's congratulatory message to the new German chancellor.

He expressed his desire to enhance cooperation across economic, political, commercial, and investment sectors to benefit both nations, with a special focus on strengthening bilateral relations, particularly in trade and investment.

Abdelatty lauded the German companies' contribution to Egyptian development through infrastructure projects and emphasized Egypt's commitment to fostering economic ties by attracting further German investment, increasing trade, and boosting Egyptian exports.

He highlighted attractive investment opportunities, including in energy and renewable energy.

They also discussed immigration and the potential for skilled labor migration to Germany, expressing interest in greater cooperation in this area.

Abdelatty sought German support for Egyptian interests within European institutions and the adoption of the second tranche of the 4 billion euro European financial package, part of the strategic partnership between Egypt and the EU.

He addressed Egypt's economic burdens stemming from hosting 10 million foreigners and outlined the government's efforts to prevent illegal Mediterranean migration. He also reviewed the regional crises.

The two sides exchanged views on regional issues, primarily the Palestinian situation, where Abdelatty detailed Egypt's mediation efforts, alongside Qatar and the United States, to reinstate the Gaza ceasefire and facilitate humanitarian aid amidst the deteriorating conditions. He stressed the urgency of halting hostilities and establishing a political path towards an independent Palestinian state to ensure regional peace and stability. (MENA)
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