October 25, 2025

Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi arrived in Brussels for a star-studded summit with the European Union, marking their first official meeting. The EU opened its treasure chest, agreeing to pump a huge €4 billion ($4.66 billion) into Egypt’s economy to boost cooperation. This deal is part of an even bigger €7.4 billion partnership inked earlier in March 2024. Just a week before this, top European leaders headed to Egypt’s resort town, Sharm el-Sheikh, to back Donald Trump’s controversial Gaza peace plan. EU Council President Antonio Costa praised Egypt for its "vital stabilising role across the wider region," calling Egypt a "leading voice in the global scene." But not everyone is cheering. Human Rights Watch slammed the EU for "bankrolling authoritarianism to keep migrants and asylum-seekers away from Europe's shores," warning of Egypt’s harsh crackdown on dissent. At the summit, El-Sisi took credit for lowering illegal migration to Europe, telling EU diplomat Kaja Kallas, "Europe hasn't been significantly affected by illegal immigration." The EU also promised support to help Egypt fight people smuggling and reinforce border security—a key part of their massive financial partnership. Experts say this support mainly aims to strengthen Egypt’s economy and keep migrants inside its borders. Egypt’s inflation and rising costs have driven many to consider moving to Europe, but data shows fewer migrants now head there, thanks to strict border control by Egypt and other North African nations. The talks also zeroed in on the Gaza conflict. Egypt controls the Rafah crossing, the only way in and out of Gaza without going through Israel. Despite promises, Israel still blocks entry for much-needed aid and rebuilding supplies. The EU and Egypt both want "safe, rapid, and unimpeded humanitarian access" to Gaza. "We know we can count on Egypt’s active support," said EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, as the EU plans to help fund Palestine’s rebuilding. Political experts say the EU wants Arab allies like Egypt to stay involved in peace efforts and keep the UN’s role strong. Paul Taylor from the European Policy Centre said, "If the Europeans are to have some influence, they need to work together with the Arab states." However, human rights groups cry foul. Claudio Francavilla from Human Rights Watch warned that while the EU talks about human rights on paper, in reality, "it set no measurable benchmarks, and shows little concern for Egypt's ongoing repression." Despite billions flowing, ordinary Egyptians suffer under a tough regime with "enforced disappearance, torture and extrajudicial executions... continuing unabated." Around 6,000 people faced trials linked to terrorism charges this year, many simply for speaking out. No public criticism of Egypt’s government came at the summit. The EU statement only lightly touched on "shared commitment" to democracy and human rights. Critics say the EU, while calling Egypt a "stability island," is sadly ignoring the dark side of authoritarian rule. So, amid dazzling deals and political strategies, the question remains: Can the EU balance its goals of peace, investment, and migration control without turning a blind eye to human suffering? Only time will tell if this high-stakes dance leads to real change or just more smoke and mirrors.

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Tags: Egypt-eu summit, Abdel fattah el-sisi, Eu investments, Human rights, Migration control, Gaza peace,