Egyptian views of the EU: Pragmatic, paternalistic and partnership concerns

This paper examines some significant trends in the Egyptian perception of the European Union. In this framework, some of the most important stances of the Egyptian government, civil society, press and public opinion towards the European Union are considered from different points of view. It is argued here that, from the Egyptian standpoint(s), three main concerns, related to pragmatic interests, a true belief in the potential of entertaining a partnership with the European Union and a rejection of paternalistic interference, are key dimensions in understanding the Egyptian perception of the EU. These aspects are discussed in the light of various issues, such as EU-Egypt cooperation, the EU's role in the resolution of regional conflicts, the international role of the EU and the EU as a 'normative power'.