CAIRO, July 5 (Xinhua) — Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry and his German counterpart Annalena Baerbock discussed on Wednesday ways to strengthen bilateral relations and coordination on issues of common concern, especially the situation in Sudan.

During a phone conversation, the two ministers affirmed the two sides’ willingness to strengthen and upgrade bilateral relations in various fields, the Egyptian Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

They also praised the momentum of economic cooperation between the two countries, stressing the importance of continuing this cooperation to promote the interests of the two countries.

While highlighting Egypt’s efforts to end the Sudanese conflict, Shoukry stressed the importance of dialogue to resolve disputes in Sudan, adding that the security and safety of the Sudanese people is a top priority for Egypt.

He said that Cairo has welcomed the Sudanese arriving in Egypt after the outbreak of the conflict, adding that his country has provided the Sudanese with necessary medical and relief materials as well as humanitarian aid.

The two ministers also discussed the deteriorating security situation in the occupied Palestinian territories, especially after the Israeli attack on the city and refugee camp of Jenin in the West Bank.

Shoukry expressed Cairo’s deep concern over the continued Israeli violations of Palestinians’ rights and attacks on Palestinians, stressing the need for the international community, especially countries with global influence, to shoulder their responsibilities to stop the current cycle of violence and protect the Palestinian people.

The Israeli forces pulled out on Tuesday night from Jenin and its refugee camp, ending two days of a large-scale military operation.

According to the Palestinian Red Crescent Society, the Israeli military operation in Jenin left 13 Palestinians dead and at least 150 others wounded, including 30 in critical conditions.

Israel said the military operation aimed to rein in militants of Palestinian factions, including the Islamic Jihad and the Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas).