Cairo, Egypt – Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi held a telephone conversation today with his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin. The call addressed the rapidly evolving regional and international situation.
President Sisi stressed the urgent need to de-escalate the current tensions in the Middle East, warning of the dangers of the region descending into widespread chaos. He added that such chaos could threaten international peace and security.
De-escalation efforts and Russia’s pivotal role
During the call with Putin, President El-Sisi reviewed the intensive efforts undertaken by the Egyptian state, in coordination with regional partners, to contain tensions and maintain regional stability. El-Sisi noted that Russia, with its weight, capabilities, and influence on the international stage, is capable of playing an effective and influential role in advancing a ceasefire. The Egyptian president also reiterated Egypt’s full support for the security and stability of its brotherly Arab states. He further emphasized the complete rejection of any infringement upon their sovereignty under any pretext, considering the security of its Arab brethren an integral extension of Egyptian national security. For his part, Putin commended Egypt’s balanced and proactive role, expressing his hope for continued joint efforts to contain the current escalation and achieve the desired de-escalation.
The Palestinian issue and the reconstruction of Gaza
Sisi also emphasized Egypt’s top priority of continuing to implement the ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip. He stressed the need to ensure the unimpeded and sufficient flow of humanitarian aid.
The Egyptian president emphasized the necessity of a swift start to the reconstruction process, asserting that the only way to achieve lasting stability is through the revival of the political process. This process leads to the establishment of an independent Palestinian state within the June 4, 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital, in accordance with the two-state solution and relevant UN resolutions. Putin welcomed the continuation of close coordination with Cairo to reach a just and comprehensive settlement of the Palestinian issue, according to a statement from the Egyptian presidency.
The Ukrainian crisis and Egyptian-Russian relations
The call also addressed developments in the Russian-Ukrainian crisis, with President Sisi expressing Egypt’s support for all efforts aimed at a political resolution. He affirmed Cairo’s readiness to provide all possible support in this regard. Regarding bilateral relations, the two leaders discussed ways to enhance the strategic partnership in the political, trade, and tourism sectors.
They reviewed the progress of joint national projects, most notably the Dabaa nuclear power plant and the Russian industrial zone in the Suez Canal Economic Zone. Furthermore, they highlighted the fruitful cooperation in the energy and food sectors, which fulfills the aspirations of both friendly nations.
