Cairo, March 27 (QNA) – Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty held talks on Friday with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio amid growing regional tensions.

According to Egypt’s foreign ministry, the two discussed over the phone escalating conflicts across the Middle East, including developments in the Palestinian territories, Sudan and Lebanon, as well as Egypt’s water security concerns and bilateral ties.

Rubio praised Egypt’s leadership and its role in mediation efforts aimed at de-escalation and regional stability. Abdelatty reiterated Cairo’s position in favor of diplomatic solutions, highlighting joint efforts with regional partners to reduce tensions and push conflicting parties towards negotiations.

On the Palestinian issue, he outlined Egypt’s efforts to advance the next phase of a US-backed plan, including deploying an international stabilization force in Gaza and facilitating the return of the Palestinian Authority.

Regarding Sudan, both sides acknowledged Egypt’s role in seeking a temporary humanitarian truce, with Cairo calling for a Sudan-led political process free from external interference.

Abdelatty also briefed his counterpart on his recent visit to Lebanon, stressing the need for an immediate halt to Israeli strikes.

On water security, Egypt reaffirmed its commitment to cooperation with Nile Basin countries while rejecting unilateral measures affecting the river. (QNA)