Egypt considering joining Mecca Pact, pledges full support for Saudi Arabia

Egypt’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cooperation and Expatriates, Badr Abdelatty, has affirmed that the security of Saudi Arabia is an integral part of both Egyptian and Arab national security, stressing Egypt’s commitment to stand by the Kingdom and support it against any attacks.

Speaking to Al Jazeera about Egypt’s position on the Mecca Defense Pact signed by Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan, Abdelatty explained that Cairo is still studying and discussing the possibility of joining the agreement, with relevant institutions currently reviewing the matter.

He noted that Egypt maintains strong cooperation with Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan, both on a four-party level and through bilateral relations. One of the main issues under discussion is enhancing collaboration among the four countries in technological, economic, political, and security fields.

Abdelatty added that this cooperation aims to develop a shared vision for regional security arrangements and ways to address ongoing crises and challenges, as well as to coordinate joint action in response to any violations of international law or breaches of state sovereignty.

Regarding Saudi Arabia, the Egyptian foreign minister said that a recent meeting of the four countries’ foreign ministers in New York demonstrated clear solidarity with the Kingdom, highlighting a unified stance against any attacks targeting Saudi Arabia, whose security is seen as a core element of regional and Arab security.

Abdelatty emphasized that Egypt stands “wholeheartedly” with Saudi Arabia, providing support “in word and deed,” and stressed that Cairo will not hesitate to offer any assistance required by Arab countries, especially Saudi Arabia.

He also noted that during Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman’s recent visit to Egypt, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi conveyed a message of solidarity from Cairo, reaffirming that the Kingdom’s security is inseparable from Egyptian and Arab national security.

Abdelatty reiterated Egypt’s rejection of attacks targeting Saudi Arabia, while also calling for de-escalation in the region and warning that continued escalation would only lead to further crises and tension.

He pointed out that Egypt’s position, shaped by historical experience, is based on the importance of de-escalation, promoting dialogue, and pursuing political solutions, stressing that military approaches only lead to greater instability and tension.

On Egyptian-Saudi relations, Abdelatty described the ties between the two countries as “strategic and eternal,” highlighting the strength of relations between their peoples and affirming Egypt’s readiness to respond to any requests for support from the Kingdom within this framework.