Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi met with John Ratcliffe, Director of the US Central Intelligence Agency, in Cairo. The meeting, attended by Egyptian Intelligence Minister Hassan Rashad, focused on enhancing strategic relations between Egypt and the United States. President El-Sisi expressed Egypt's appreciation for its long-standing and distinguished relations with the US, which have continued to evolve across various fields. He commended the level of coordination and consultation between the two nations on regional and international issues of mutual interest.
During the meeting, President El-Sisi reviewed developments in the Middle East, emphasizing Egypt's support for efforts to achieve a comprehensive agreement to end the Iranian crisis. This, he said, would help restore security and stability in the region and ensure international freedom of navigation. The President also reiterated Egypt's commitment to supporting Arab security and sovereignty, rejecting any aggression against Arab states. He stressed the importance of resolving regional crises through political and diplomatic channels, addressing their root causes, and preserving national institutions, territorial integrity, and regional stability.
President El-Sisi's discussion with Ratcliffe also touched on the Palestinian issue. The President emphasized the importance of fully implementing the second phase of the US plan to stabilize the ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. He praised the efforts of mediators in developing a roadmap for this phase. The President reaffirmed Egypt's stance, highlighting the need for a lasting ceasefire, civilian protection, and sustained humanitarian aid access to the Gaza Strip. He also called for creating conditions conducive to resuming the political process, leading to a just and comprehensive solution to the Palestinian issue, in accordance with international legitimacy and the two-state principle.
Ratcliffe conveyed US President Donald Trump's greetings to President El-Sisi, expressing appreciation for the meeting. He emphasized the Trump administration's commitment to continued close cooperation with Egypt to promote Middle East security and stability. Ratcliffe praised Egypt's pivotal role in supporting efforts to achieve peaceful and comprehensive settlements to regional crises. He also noted the strong cooperation between the CIA and Egyptian General Intelligence in areas such as security, intelligence, counter-terrorism, and transnational crime.
The Egyptian President's meeting with Ratcliffe highlighted the strong strategic partnership between Egypt and the US. President El-Sisi noted that Egypt views the US as a key strategic partner in politics, security, and economics. He commended President Trump's efforts to achieve global security, peace, and stability. The two leaders discussed ways to enhance bilateral cooperation, reflecting the depth and strength of their countries' relations.
The discussions also covered the regional security landscape, with a focus on counter-terrorism and combating organized crime. Ratcliffe and President El-Sisi reviewed the existing cooperation between their agencies, underscoring the importance of continued collaboration to address shared security challenges. This cooperation aims to enhance regional stability and address threats to international peace and security.
In conclusion, President El-Sisi's meeting with CIA Director Ratcliffe reaffirmed the strong ties between Egypt and the United States. The two leaders emphasized their commitment to enhancing strategic cooperation, promoting regional stability, and addressing key security challenges. Their discussions highlighted the importance of a lasting ceasefire in Gaza, protection of civilians, and a comprehensive solution to the Palestinian issue.
Key points
- President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi emphasizes the need for a lasting ceasefire in Gaza and protection of civilians.
- Egypt and the US reaffirm their strategic partnership, cooperation on regional security issues.
- The two leaders discuss the Palestinian issue, Iranian crisis, and regional stability.
