The proposal for Egypt secured 452 votes in favour, 182 against, and 40 abstentions. This financial package is part of a broader €5 billion support initiative proposed by the European Commission on 15 March 2024, which includes a €1 billion short-term loan disbursed at the end of 2024 and the newly approved €4 billion to be released in three instalments. The assistance aims to address Egypt's critical economic challenges and reinforce its role as a stabilising force amid regional geopolitical tensions.
Jordan's aid package received overwhelming support, with 571 votes in favour, 59 against, and 46 abstentions. This marks the fourth macro-financial assistance operation for Jordan since 2013, designed to help cover the country's residual financing needs, support structural reforms, and strengthen fiscal consolidation efforts. In January 2025, the European Commission announced an additional financial package to assist Jordan in addressing ongoing financial and other challenges.
The approval of these aid packages underscores the EU's strategic interest in fostering stability and economic resilience in neighbouring regions. Rapporteur Celine Imart highlighted the significance of this support, stating, "Helping our partners means furthering European interests in an unstable area; this vote underscores Parliament’s support."
While the financial assistance to Jordan is contingent upon the country's adherence to effective democratic mechanisms, including a multi-party parliamentary system, the rule of law, and respect for human rights, similar conditionality appears to be absent for Egypt. This discrepancy has drawn criticism from certain quarters within the European Parliament. The Greens, in particular, have voiced concerns over the lack of human rights considerations tied to the Egyptian loan. French MEP Mounir Satouri remarked, "It is clear that the Commission is preparing the ground for a sketchy agreement with Egypt on migration, including in relation to the dramatic situation in Gaza," highlighting ongoing issues related to civil liberties and governance in Egypt.
The financial aid to Egypt and Jordan aligns with the EU's broader strategy of engaging with partner countries facing economic and societal challenges. These loans are intended to support structural political and economic reforms, contributing to regional stability and development. The European Parliament's approval paves the way for negotiations between Parliament and the Council to finalise the terms of the assistance, with discussions expected to commence shortly.
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