The informal ministerial meeting on the future of European Neighborhood Policy on Monday, in Barcelona will discuss promoting political cooperation and progressive economic integration between the European Union and the partner countries, Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry told MENA on Saturday.

Shoukry added that the meeting would be a valuable opportunity to bolster cooperation for tackling common challenges, and a chance for the EU to show support for Egypt to further face the growing instability in the region and the threat of terrorism.

He noted that Egypt could be seen as "the last defense" that prevents the spread of terrorism in Europe.

Shoukry said that Egypt's potentials allow it to shoulder such responsibility, underscoring that the EU-Egyptian ties should be based on mutual respect.