Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty met with Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki in Asmara on Friday to discuss pressing regional challenges and strengthen diplomatic ties.
During the visit, Abdelatty conveyed a message from Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, emphasizing the deepening of bilateral relations and regional cooperation.
The meeting focused on the ongoing conflict in Sudan, the evolving situation in Libya, and security concerns in the Red Sea region.
Egypt and Eritrea reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Sudan’s stability, pledging to assist its national institutions while preserving its territorial integrity.
Since April 2023, Sudan has been embroiled in a brutal war between the General Abdel Fattah al Burhan’s army and Rapid Support Forces, leaving over 20,000 dead and displacing millions.
A recent study by U.S. universities estimated the death toll to be significantly higher, reaching approximately 130,000 casualties.
In addition to Sudan, the leaders addressed Libya’s political crisis and the UN-led efforts to organize elections and stabilize the country.
The two sides also discussed growing security tensions in the Sahel region and the strategic importance of Red Sea navigation.
Abdelatty’s visit follows Sisi’s October trip to Eritrea and is part of an emerging trilateral coordination mechanism between Egypt, Eritrea, and Somalia.
The initiative held its first ministerial meeting in Cairo in January, with preparations underway for a second round of talks.
Eritrean President Afwerki expressed his appreciation for Egypt’s engagement, reaffirming his commitment to advancing cooperation on regional and economic matters.
On Jan. 11, Abdelatty hosted a trilateral meeting in Cairo with his Somali and Eritrean counterparts to build on the outcomes of last year’s Asmara summit.