Egypt’s Foreign Minister, Badr Abdelatty, has hailed the Monastery of Saint Catherine in Sinai as a vital symbol of religious harmony and historical legacy, in his recently published article. Abdelatty emphasized the monastery’s role as a centuries-old beacon of interfaith dialogue and spiritual preservation, calling it a cornerstone of Egypt’s diverse cultural identity.

Deeply embedded in Egypt’s spiritual and cultural heritage, the monastery reflects the country’s enduring commitment to religious freedom and the protection of sacred sites. This commitment, as Abdelatty pointed out, is not merely theoretical but is firmly enshrined in the national identity and actively upheld through government policy, particularly over the past decade.

In reference to a recent appellate court ruling on May 28, which formally transferred legal possession of the Monastery and its estates to the Egyptian state, the minister criticized the international response as misaligned with the facts on the ground.

He argued that the reactions both misinterpreted the legal framework of the decision and overlooked Egypt’s longstanding position in support of freedom of belief—an essential tenet of its constitution and public policy. According to the Egyptian stance, any assertion that the ruling contradicts these principles is both inaccurate and unfounded.

Recent claims suggesting that Egypt seeks to assert control over the Monastery, displace the monastic community, or alter its religious identity were dismissed by the minister as entirely baseless. He reaffirmed that the ruling safeguards the Monastery’s current status, ensures the continuation of its ownership of religious sites, and fully respects its spiritual and cultural legacy.

In a gesture underscoring Egypt’s dedication to transparency and international cooperation, the Egyptian government moved swiftly to clarify the court’s decision. President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi personally engaged in dialogue with the Greek Prime Minister on May 30 and again on June 23, reaffirming Egypt’s deep respect for the Monastery and its religious significance.

These discussions served to reinforce Egypt’s unwavering commitment to preserving the Monastery’s religious, spiritual, and ecclesiastical functions—an enduring tradition that has persisted throughout history.