Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi recently met with Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, the Council of Ministers, governors, and other high-ranking officials to discuss the country's current challenges. The meeting, which took place at the Strategic Command headquarters in the new capital, aimed to address the nation's security and economic concerns. President El-Sisi emphasized the importance of utilizing the country's resources efficiently and maintaining trust in its institutions.
During the meeting, President El-Sisi highlighted the significance of national unity and awareness in the face of challenges. He noted that Egypt has faced numerous obstacles, including the 2011-2013 period, which resulted in economic contraction and a potential 15-year recovery period. The President also mentioned the country's exposure to economic shocks, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the Russian-Ukrainian war, and the Gaza conflict.
President El-Sisi stressed that Egypt's strategic choice is peace, which was established by the late President Anwar El-Sadat. He emphasized that the country has no hidden agenda and that the Palestinian issue remains a central concern in the Middle East. The President also mentioned that Egypt lost $20 billion in Suez Canal revenues due to regional instability.
The President pointed out that various tools are being used to harm Egypt, including social media platforms. He emphasized the need for the state to develop its tools to protect its interests and noted that the least costly means to destroy a country is to incite its people against each other. President El-Sisi also highlighted that the state's strength lies in its institutions and the awareness of its people.
President El-Sisi met with local leaders, representing 50% of the Egyptian population living in 4,500 villages. He discussed their ideas and initiatives, including the formation of a committee to counter rumors in their communities. The President praised the efforts of these leaders, considering them positive models to be emulated.
The President directed the Ministry of Awqaf and the Coptic Church to play a role in spreading awareness among citizens about the dangers of undermining the state. He also instructed the Ministry of Interior to rationalize the costs of vehicle licensing and to treat citizens with respect. President El-Sisi reiterated the importance of preserving Egypt's stability and security.
Experts, such as Dr. Mohamed Majed El-Zayat, a strategic expert and academic advisor, emphasized that the expanded participation in the meeting sends a message to various sectors of Egyptian society. They highlighted the importance of national unity and security in the face of unprecedented challenges in Egypt's immediate security environment. El-Zayat also stressed that the concept of national security extends beyond protecting the country's borders to include safeguarding its development project and social cohesion.
Key points
- President El-Sisi emphasizes national unity and awareness in the face of challenges
- Egypt's strategic choice is peace, established by President Anwar El-Sadat
- The President directs the Ministry of Awqaf and the Coptic Church to spread awareness about the dangers of undermining the state
