The 35th U.S.-Egypt Military Cooperation Committee, held in Washington, D.C. on October 23-24, 2024, brought together U.S. and Egyptian officials to enhance military collaboration and address regional security issues such as the conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon. Key discussions focused on Egypt’s efforts in de-escalating tensions and supporting humanitarian initiatives, affirming the strategic partnership between the two nations.
On October 23-24, 2024, Washington, D.C. hosted the 35th annual U.S.-Egypt Military Cooperation Committee (MCC), co-chaired by Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for the Middle East, Daniel B. Shapiro, and Egypt’s Assistant Minister of Defense for Foreign Relations, Major General Walaa Bibers. This meeting reinforced the robust defense partnership between the two nations and facilitated discussions on security cooperation and shared regional concerns.
Building on the strategic discussions from last year’s forum in Cairo, the MCC focused on key regional security issues, including the conflicts in Gaza, Lebanon, and Sudan, the threats posed by the Houthis to global maritime commerce in the Red Sea, and destabilizing actions by Iran and its proxies. Both delegations emphasized the need for greater regional security integration and the enhancement of U.S.-Egyptian military collaboration.
DASD Shapiro acknowledged Egypt’s contributions to facilitating the release of hostages in Gaza and the broader ceasefire negotiations, commending Egypt’s role in easing regional tensions. He reiterated the U.S. commitment to achieving a diplomatic resolution that protects civilians along the Israel-Lebanon border and advocated for increased humanitarian assistance to affected populations.
Both DASD Shapiro and Major General Bibers reaffirmed their commitment to the strategic U.S.-Egypt partnership and to maintaining stability in the region, underlining the importance of their ongoing military cooperation and collaboration in addressing mutual security challenges. Their discussions highlighted a shared vision for future defense and security initiatives.
The U.S.-Egypt Military Cooperation Committee serves as a vital forum for both nations to strengthen their defense ties and address regional security issues. Over the years, the MCC has evolved to reflect the changing geopolitical landscape in the Middle East, focusing on counter-terrorism, military collaboration, and regional conflicts that affect both national and global security.
In summary, the 35th U.S.-Egypt Military Cooperation Committee highlighted the enduring relationship between the U.S. and Egypt in terms of defense and security matters. Key discussions addressed contemporary regional threats, emphasized ongoing military cooperation, and reinforced both nations’ commitments to restoring stability in the Middle East region. The meeting underscored the importance of collaborative efforts to navigate complex security challenges.
Original Source: www.defense.gov
