EU High Representative travels to Egypt and Lebanon

The EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/Vice-President of the European Commission, Josep Borrell, will travel to Egypt and Lebanon from 8 to 12 September, the EU Delegation to Lebanon said.

“The visit takes place against the background of the war in Gaza, where the catastrophic humanitarian situation and the fate of hostages make an urgent ceasefire ever more critical. The mission forms part of the EU’s continuous regional outreach to prevent further escalation,” the Delegation said in a statement.

On Monday, the HR/VP visited Cairo for official meetings, including with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. He will also travel to Rafah (Egyptian side) for meetings with representatives of the U.N. agencies on the ground and of the Emergency Rescue Committee (ERC). The HR/VP will also inaugurate an EU-funded project to help Gazan children and those who take care of them in Egypt.

“Mediation efforts, undertaken by Egypt, the U.S. and Qatar, will feature high on the agenda, as will the EU’s role in alleviating human suffering in the Strip. The two sides will also discuss the regional situation,” the statement said.

On Tuesday, the HR/VP will meet with Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty. The HR/VP will also attend a Ministerial meeting of the League of Arab States in Cairo.

On Wednesday and Thursday, the HR/VP will be in Lebanon where he will meet – among others -- caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati, Speaker of the Parliament Nabih Berri, and Lebanese Armed Forces Commander General Joseph Aoun.

The HR/VP will also have a meeting with caretaker Minister of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants Abdallah Bou Habib.

“The EU’s support to Lebanon’ resilience and stability, as well as its regional role will be reviewed with a range of domestic and international stakeholders, including the U.N.,” the statement said.

The mission will be an opportunity to discuss all aspects of the situation in and around Gaza and wider political issues with regional leaders, notably the impact of the conflict on neighboring countries and their respective contributions to peace and stability efforts, the EU statement added.