Diplomatic efforts to ease tensions between the United States and Iran are gaining fresh regional backing, with Egypt and Qatar calling on Washington and Tehran to return to negotiations.
The appeal comes after a 60-day framework for U.S.-Iran talks expired without a final agreement, with both countries urging the sides to revive the June framework and pursue a diplomatic solution.
Egyptian Foreign Minister – Badr Abdelatty, Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister – Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani made the call during talks in Egypt.
They said renewed negotiations could help address the concerns of all sides and pave the way for a lasting agreement and greater regional stability.
The ministers also stressed the need to protect freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and prevent disruptions to international shipping and global trade.
Qatar, which has played a mediating role between Washington and Tehran, is continuing efforts to bring both sides back to the negotiating table.
Egyptian President, Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, had separately met Sheikh Mohammed and called for urgent efforts to contain the regional escalation, warning of its impact on stability, trade and the global economy.
El-Sisi also reaffirmed Egypt’s support for Qatar and other Arab states, rejecting any attempt to undermine their sovereignty and stability.
The visit also produced several agreements between Egypt and Qatar covering healthcare, customs, auditing, trade, investment, energy and industrial cooperation.
Both countries agreed to hold their Joint Higher Committee meetings annually and ensure that agreements reached are translated into concrete projects.
