Development Minister Reem Alabali Radovan: "The Arab plan shows a realistic path to the reconstruction of Gaza. It can be a good starting point for giving the people of Gaza a new perspective. As Development Minister, I would like to get involved early on; Germany will also contribute to the reconstruction of Gaza. It is important to start talking now about how this enormous task can be achieved, even if the current situation is still catastrophic. Fundamental prerequisites for reconstruction are a secure humanitarian situation, a lasting ceasefire, and a political framework that offers a long-term opportunity for peace and security. Hamas must no longer have power in Gaza and must no longer pose a threat to Israel. And there must be no forced resettlement, expulsion, or territorial shrinkage in Gaza and the West Bank."

Alabali Radovan is meeting with members of the Egyptian government today. Talks are planned with Egyptian Prime Minister Mustafa Madbouly, Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty, Minister of Cooperation Rania Al-Mashat, and the Deputy Secretary-General of the Arab League, Hossam Zaki. The discussions are expected to focus on the implementation of the Arab Reconstruction Plan and possible support from the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development ( BMZ ). The reconstruction of the Gaza Strip is an immense task that will span the next decade. To achieve this, the international community must work together and share the burden fairly. This includes countries from the region and the United Nations. Reconstruction should be part of a comprehensive process toward a negotiated two-state solution.

As soon as the situation allows, the BMZ can immediately initiate emergency measures to assist in Gaza, for example, with water and energy supplies and the provision of temporary housing. The Development Ministry has already been involved in the past in Gaza, supporting drinking water and sanitation services and promoting sustainable economic development.

The BMZ can also draw on its experience in rebuilding other regions devastated by war and crises. One example is its support for Iraq. By 2017, more than six million Iraqis had fled the country because of the armed conflict against the so-called Islamic State. At that time, the German Development Ministry, together with partners, supported the rapid construction of water and energy supplies, medical centers, and schools in Iraq. People were able to live there again, and internally displaced persons were able to return.