Daijiworld Media Network - Cairo
Cairo, Dec 26: Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdel Aaty has offered what he described as “sincere advice” to the Syrian authorities, urging them to work towards stability and preserve the country’s national and territorial unity.
Speaking in an interview with Egyptian state television on Thursday, Abdel Aaty said Egypt wishes “all good for Syria” and does not interfere in its internal affairs, but acts out of Arab responsibility, shared interests and common history. Recalling past ties between the two nations, he said, “We were one people in two regions, and we must offer advice for the sake of stability in Syria.”
He stressed that the Syrian leadership should engage in dialogue with all sects and communities, given the country’s complex social, ethnic and religious fabric. Such an approach, he said, would help shut the door on foreign intervention, prevent instability and safeguard the unity of the Syrian state.
Abdel Aaty cited Israel’s claims of protecting the Druze in southern Syria as an example of what he called “truth used for a false purpose” to justify external interference. He underlined that protecting all sects is the responsibility of the ruling authority.
In a statement, Egypt’s foreign ministry said communication with all communities, including Kurds, Druze and Alawites, is essential, stressing that “all of them are Syrians.” Abdel Aaty also urged Syria to look at Egypt’s own experience, which he said is based on upholding citizenship values irrespective of sectarian identity.
Turning to the Palestinian issue, Abdel Aaty described it as “the mother of all causes” and reiterated that Egypt has clear red lines. These include any attempt to separate the West Bank from Gaza or divide the Gaza Strip. He said Egypt, despite intense pressure, had firmly opposed plans for the forced displacement of Palestinians.
On regional conflicts, Abdel Aaty warned that Egypt also has red lines when it comes to Sudan, stating that the fragmentation of the country would pose a direct threat to Egypt’s security. He added that a similar stance applies to any attempt to divide Libya.