Egypt angered by apology demands over 'dogs and slaves' remark

A plenary session during the recent UN environment assembly meeting in Nairobi. Egypt on Tuesday fought back claims that its official called African states 'dogs and slaves'. Photo/Courtesy
A plenary session during the recent UN environment assembly meeting in Nairobi. Egypt on Tuesday fought back claims that its official called African states 'dogs and slaves'. Photo/Courtesy

Egypt has protested allegations brought against its representative at the recently concluded UN environment assembly (UNEA) in Nairobi.

The country was asked to apologise over comments of its official who is claimed to have called African representative at the meeting 'dogs and slaves'.

In response, it questioned the competence of the complaint and warned the irked African countries against 'poking their nose on the Arab state's sovereignty'.

Egypt said the allegations leveled against the country's representative following a disagreement at the meeting are unsubstantiated and lacked evidence.

“The Embassy on this occasion questions the competency of the technical committee as a subsidiary body of the African group in Nairobi to make such sweeping accusations and determinations, which exceeds its competence and responsibilities,” the Embassy said in a note seen by the Star.

The development comes after the Chair of the African Diplomat Committee (ADC) Yvonne Khamati asked Egypt through a note to apologise following the unpleasant comment.

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The note was copied to the main international bodies and Egypt.

ADC alleged Egypt was undiplomatic, irresponsible, uncivilized and insulting behavior thus prohibited from representing the continent in any official capacity following the allegations.

“The Arab Republic of Egypt takes this opportunity to express its total rejection and disappointment with the language used by the Chair of the technical committee's memorandum," the note said.

They said the generalization levied at the country and people of Egypt over the alleged inflammatory or inappropriate language was unacceptable.

"It categorically rejects the competency of the said committee to put forward and disseminate recommendations that infringe on the sovereignty of a member state of the African group,” Egypt said.

The note, addressed to Khamati through its Embassy, said: "All aspects of this issue must be addressed in its proper contest as an individual issue,"

“The directives have been issued to undertake full investigations into the matter. The findings will be conveyed to your executives at the right time,”

the Embassy added.

Egypt said that she avails herself of this opportunity to renew to the Dean of African Diplomatic corps in Nairobi the assurance of its highest consideration.

“The Arab Republic of Egypt reiterates its unwavering respect and its commitment to its African identity, which is part and parcel of its people's association in creed, history, geography, and culture which is not subject to the question," the country said.

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