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Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty and visiting European Commissioner for Home Affairs Ylva Johansson vowed to strengthen bilateral cooperation regarding migration and human trafficking, according to a joint statement issued Tuesday.

Abdelatty said it is important to facilitate pathways for regular migration and increase awareness of the dangers of irregular migration.

For her part, Johansson welcomed Egypt’s efforts in hosting over 9 million migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers worldwide, and voiced the European Union (EU)’s continued support for Egypt in this regard, it said.

The two sides agreed on the importance of promoting their holistic approach in dealing with relevant issues, such as linking migration to development and addressing the root causes of irregular migration.

They also underscored the significance of advancing cooperation in managing borders and combating criminal networks involved in human trafficking and migrant smuggling, the statement said.

Both sides reiterated their commitment to protecting the human rights of migrants and refugees in accordance with their obligations under international law, it added.

The two officials also discussed ways to facilitate a dignified and sustainable return, readmission, and reintegration of Egyptian citizens irregularly staying in the EU, according to the statement.