Brussels: Europe and the Arabs

Ambassador Ahmed Abu Zeid, Egypt's Ambassador to Belgium, the European Union, NATO, and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, presented his credentials on Tuesday, May 20, to European Council President António Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, during an official ceremony held at the European Council headquarters.
During his meeting with the EU leaders following the presentation of his credentials, the Egyptian ambassador conveyed the greetings of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi to both Costa and von der Leyen, emphasizing Egypt's pride in the special relationship it shares with the European Union, the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two parties, and its commitment to working together with EU institutions to implement its six axes. Ambassador Ahmed Abu Zeid also expressed his aspiration to work on strengthening Egyptian-European relations on all levels for the mutual benefit of both parties, and to promote and support peace and stability in the Middle East and the Mediterranean region, both north and south, as well as intensifying the ongoing Egyptian-European communication and consultation mechanisms at all levels regarding issues of common interest, both bilaterally and internationally. According to what was announced by the Egyptian Embassy in Brussels, it added, "For their part, the President of the European Council and the President of the Commission were keen to convey their greetings and special appreciation to the President of the Republic, and their pride and appreciation for the strategic partnership between the European Union and Egypt. They also emphasized that Egypt is a very important partner for Europe, and that all European Union institutions are committed to supporting Egypt, appreciating the important and pivotal role it plays in resolving regional crises and enhancing stability factors in the Middle East. Both Costa and von der Leyen also expressed their aspiration to hold the first Egyptian-European summit expected this year.