Visit to ECFA by the Australian Deputy Minister for International Security, Legal and Consular Affairs

On 21 January 2024, ECFA received, at his request, the Australian Ambassador, Dr. Axel Wabenhorst, and Ambassador Craig Maclachlan, Deputy Secretary, International Security, Legal and Consular Group in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Australia, as well as the Second Secretary at the Embassy. This was to get acquainted with the latest developments in the Middle East. The meeting was attended by Ambassador Mohamed El-Oraby, ECFA Chairman, and Ambassador Dr. Ezzat Saad, ECFA Director.

1- Ambassador El-Oraby and Ambassador Saad explained the following in particular:

The situation in the region is deteriorating, in view of many ongoing events, the latest of which is the war in Gaza, as a result of which the role of non-state actors in the Middle East has become increasingly prominent, represented in the Houthis who support the Palestinian resistance.

This exacerbating situation also includes the impact on freedom of navigation in the Red Sea and the diversion of ships to the Cape of Good Hope, and the repercussions of this matter on the Suez Canal revenues.

Accordingly, the world has been witnessing many successive developments in limited periods of time recently, and then the region and Egypt have been ravaged by many regional and global events steadily over the recent years.

Despite the chaos that has struck the region and the economic crisis, Egypt is striving to maintain its stability, security, economy and armed forces, and remains resilient and strong. The state’s approach consists of maintaining active and effective diplomacy in the Middle East region. In addition to establishing relations with various countries in light of diversifying relations while respecting the rules governing the global order and in a manner that does not contradict Egyptian interests. Egypt also affirms its support for the Palestinian cause and efforts towards establishing a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital, in implementation of the principle of the two-state solution. Egypt has intensified its efforts, especially after October 7, at all levels and in several issues.

In this regard, Ambassador El-Araby noted the importance of international support for the Palestinian cause and the role of allies in this regard.

On his part, the Australian representative hailed the leading role of the Egyptian state and its efforts in evacuating approximately 196 Australian citizens and their families from the Gaza Strip.

Regarding the causes of the situation in the Middle East, it was indicated that the failed U.S. foreign policy and its continued support for Israel contributes to the deterioration of this situation, in addition to receiving support from the West and Australia.

2- The Australian side emphasized the friendly relationship between Australia and Israel. The Egyptian side explained that it is the responsibility of Israel’s friends and allies to advise it to abandon its policy of using force, and to urge it to return to the negotiating table and accept peace. The guests responded that it is not easy to advise friends. The delegation openly expressed solidarity and support to Israel.

Ambassador Dr. Saad suggested that Australia take a more effective step on the Palestinian cause by declaring its recognition of the State of Palestine in accordance with its support for the Palestinians and the principle of the two-state solution. Both ECFA Chairman and Director explained that this should not be limited to formal restrictions on Israelis, including restrictions on granting Australia’s visas to Israeli settlers.

Regarding Australian efforts to support Egypt and those affected from Gaza:

Ambassador El-Oraby inquired about the possibility of establishing an Australian field hospital at the Rafah crossing to help the affected Palestinians in Gaza. The Australian official explained that they do not have the necessary capabilities to do so in the region at the present time. He added that Australia, however, provides financial support to the Palestinians in cooperation with UNRWA and the Red Cross, with total aid reaching approximately $53 million.

Ambassador El-Oraby suggested hosting young Australian diplomats in Egypt. In addition to examining the possibility of providing a scholarship to an Egyptian diplomat at the Diplomatic Academy in Australia, which would create a kind of interaction and mutual understanding among youth in the two countries. He also suggested the possibility of establishing a partnership between ECFA and similar institutions or bodies in Australia.