Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi received CIA Director John Ratcliffe on [unspecified date] at the Egyptian Presidential Palace, in the presence of Egyptian Intelligence Chief Hassan Rashad. The meeting 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.
The two leaders discussed ways to bolster cooperation between their countries, with President el-Sisi emphasizing that Egypt views the US as a key strategic partner in politics, security, and economics. He commended the efforts of US President Donald Trump in promoting global security, peace, and stability. The CIA Director conveyed President Trump's greetings to President el-Sisi, highlighting the US administration's commitment to working closely with Egypt to foster peace and stability in the Middle East.
President el-Sisi reviewed recent developments in the Middle East, stressing Egypt's support for efforts to reach a comprehensive agreement to end the Iranian crisis, which would contribute to restoring security and stability in the region and ensuring international navigation freedom. He also reaffirmed Egypt's unwavering stance in supporting Arab security and sovereignty, rejecting any aggression against Arab states, and emphasizing the need for peaceful and diplomatic solutions to regional crises.
The meeting also touched on the Palestinian issue, with President el-Sisi emphasizing the importance of fully implementing the second phase of President Trump's plan to stabilize the Gaza Strip. He praised the efforts of mediators in devising a roadmap for this phase. The Egyptian President reiterated Egypt's consistent position, prioritizing a ceasefire, civilian protection, and sustained humanitarian aid access to Gaza, as well as creating conditions for resuming the political process toward a fair and comprehensive solution.
CIA Director Ratcliffe acknowledged Egypt's pivotal role in brokering a Gaza ceasefire and its ongoing efforts to promote peace and stability in the region. The two officials also discussed the Sudanese crisis, with President el-Sisi reaffirming Egypt's steadfast support for Sudan's unity, stability, and legitimate national institutions. He stressed that Sudan's sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity are unshakeable constants.
The leaders reviewed Egypt's active engagement in international and regional frameworks addressing the Sudanese crisis, aiming to halt the war, alleviate humanitarian suffering, and support a political settlement. They also exchanged views on developments in the Horn of Africa, with President el-Sisi expressing Egypt's full support for efforts to achieve security and stability in Somalia and its firm rejection of any infringement on Somali sovereignty or territorial integrity.
Director Ratcliffe expressed US appreciation for Egypt's effective role in promoting African security and stability, emphasizing the importance of continued coordination and consultation between the two countries on regional issues, including the Sudanese crisis, Somali affairs, and international navigation security.
Key points
- Egypt and the US are working together to address regional challenges, including the Iranian crisis and the Sudanese conflict.
- President el-Sisi emphasized Egypt's commitment to Arab security and sovereignty, and its support for a peaceful solution to the Palestinian issue.
- The meeting highlighted the strong strategic partnership between Egypt and the US, with a focus on enhancing cooperation in politics, security, and economics.
