Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry underlined that the European Union (EU) and Southern Mediterranean countries face huge challenges which entail joint cooperation and adopting new neighborhood policies.

These policies depend on mutual respect and fair partnership, he affirmed, adding that it also should take into consideration the sovereignty of the Southern Mediterranean countries, not interfering in its internal affairs and respecting its cultural, religious and social privacy.

The minister's remarks came during the ministerial meeting held on Monday by the EU with the South Mediterranean countries in Barcelona.

The meeting was attended by the foreign minister of the EU's countries, said the Foreign Ministry Spokesman Badr Abdel Aatti.