The European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, is set to embark on a diplomatic tour to Egypt and Lebanon from September 8 to 12.
His visit comes amid the ongoing war in Gaza, where the catastrophic humanitarian situation and the fate of hostages have made an urgent ceasefire more critical than ever.
This mission is part of the EU’s ongoing efforts to prevent further regional escalation.
According to an official statement from the EU, Borrell will hold formal meetings in Cairo tomorrow and travel to Rafah to meet with representatives of United Nations agencies and the Emergency Rescue Committee.
Additionally, he will inaugurate an EU-funded project to support children in Gaza and their caregivers in Egypt.
Key topics on the agenda include Egypt, the US, and Qatar’s mediation efforts, as well as the EU’s role in alleviating humanitarian suffering in Gaza. Regional security and stability will also be discussed during Borrell’s meetings.
On Tuesday, Borrell is scheduled to meet Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelaty. A joint press conference will follow, broadcast live on the EbS channel. He will also attend a ministerial meeting of the Arab League in Cairo.
Borrell’s visit will continue in Lebanon on Wednesday and Thursday, where he is expected to meet Prime Minister Najib Mikati, Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, and Lebanese Army Commander General Joseph Aoun.
Discussions with Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib are also planned, along with a press conference that will be available on EbS.
The visit aims to review EU support for Lebanon’s resilience and stability, along with its regional role. Borrell will engage with various stakeholders, including the UN, to discuss Gaza’s broader situation and the regional implications of the conflict on neighboring countries.
The mission is seen as an opportunity to address the political and humanitarian challenges in Gaza and beyond while seeking regional contributions to peace and stability efforts.
