Lawmakers voted 386-181 in favour of the decision, reflecting broad support for the EU's strategic and comprehensive partnership with Egypt and Cairo's role in strengthening stability in the EU's southern neighbourhood.
Egyptian Ambassador to the EU Ahmed Abu Zeid said the vote followed
nearly nine months of intensive deliberations by the committees on
International Trade, Foreign Affairs, and Budgets. This was also coupled with
round-the-clock communications from the Egyptian side with parliament members
and leaders of political groups to explain various aspects of Egyptian-European
relations, the six pillars of the comprehensive strategic partnership, and to
review Egyptian efforts to support stability and peace in both the Middle East
and Africa, emphasizing the shared interests of both parties in strengthening
their existing partnership.
The European Council is expected to vote on the decision in the coming days, clearing the way for the disbursement of the funds. This aid aims to bolster the Egyptian economy against growing international and regional challenges and help the government implement its development and economic programs.