Mohammed Abu Zaid

CAIRO: A spokesman for Egypt’s Foreign Ministry said the country was pursuing political negotiations between Israel and Palestine and cautioned that the ceasefire agreement did not represent an end to the conflict.

Ahmed Hafez also said that Egypt’s “extensive effort” during the past few days had culminated in the ceasefire on both sides, adding there were two security delegations in the Palestinian and Israeli territories to follow up on implementation measures.

“Currently, the priority is to stabilize the situation as the ceasefire provides a serious atmosphere for thinking about the future.”

Hafez said Egypt was working to create a conducive climate for negotiations, which was profoundly important.

“There is a vibe of despair between the two sides, which may be exploited by some to cause more clashes and confrontations,” he added.

Egypt has already announced the allocation of $500 million to help rebuild the Gaza Strip, in addition to providing aid convoys.

“We are always focused on keeping an eye on the cause of the issue, which is reaching a (permanent) settlement,” the ministry spokesman said.