Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi has stated that the Nile River's water is a matter of existence for the Egyptian people. This statement was made during his talks with South Korean President Lee Jae-myung, where the two leaders elevated their countries' relations to a strategic partnership. This new level of cooperation aims to strengthen ties in politics, economy, and development. President Sisi stressed that this partnership is based on mutual respect and benefit.
The relations between Egypt and South Korea have witnessed significant growth over the past decade, particularly in technology, industry, artificial intelligence, infrastructure, and new and renewable energy. President Sisi expressed Egypt's desire to benefit from South Korea's expertise and expand Korean industrial investments in Egypt. The Egyptian government is looking to support the localization of advanced industries, including automotive, electronics, petrochemicals, and new and renewable energy.
President Sisi and President Lee Jae-myung also discussed regional developments, showing a convergence of views on promoting a culture of peace and stability in the Middle East and the Korean Peninsula. Egypt's efforts to restore security and stability in the Middle East were highlighted, along with the importance of ensuring freedom and safety of navigation in international sea routes. The two leaders agreed on the need to prevent the escalation of current crises.
President Sisi emphasized Egypt's commitment to supporting stability in the Horn of Africa, preserving the sovereignty of its countries, and rejecting any actions that could lead to new arrangements for accessing the Red Sea at the expense of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of coastal states. He stressed that the responsibility for Red Sea security and governance lies solely with the coastal states.
Regarding the Palestinian issue, President Sisi reiterated Egypt's firm stance on achieving a just and comprehensive settlement based on international legitimacy and the two-state solution. This includes the establishment of an independent Palestinian state on the lines of June 4, 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital. Egypt expects more countries to recognize the Palestinian state and appreciates South Korea's potential role in the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip.
President Sisi also expressed his rejection of any plans to displace the Palestinian people and condemned Israeli escalation in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. Egypt's stance on the Palestinian issue remains unwavering in its support for a just and lasting peace.
In conclusion, the talks between President Sisi and President Lee Jae-myung reflect a strong foundation for future cooperation between Egypt and South Korea. The two countries aim to build on their strategic partnership to address regional challenges and promote peace and stability.
Key points
- President Sisi emphasizes Nile water as a matter of existence for Egyptians.
- Egypt and South Korea elevate relations to strategic partnership.
- President Sisi supports a two-state solution for the Palestinian issue.
