CAIRO, Dec 12 (MENA) – President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi on Friday received a phone call from French President Emmanuel Macron, as they discussed ways of advancing bilateral ties and the latest regional developments, notably the situation in the Gaza Strip.
Presidential Spokesperson Mohamed al-Shenawy said President Sisi voiced his deep appreciation for the significant development in relations between Egypt and France, particularly following their elevation to a strategic partnership level during Macron’s visit to Cairo in April 2015.
The spokesman explained that the two leaders probed means to push forward relations between the two friendly countries by enhancing political, economic, and investment cooperation, increasing the volume of trade, which has witnessed tangible progress in recent months, as well as fostering collaboration in the industrial, tourism, and transportation sectors.
The call also addressed the latest regional developments, particularly the situation in the Gaza Strip.
In this regard, President Sisi lauded the French support of Egyptian efforts that led to the ceasefire agreement, emphasizing the need to solidify the ceasefire and move towards implementing the second phase of US President Donald Trump’s peace plan.
President Sisi also stressed the importance of expediting the delivery of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip and immediately commencing the early recovery and reconstruction phase.
For his part, President Macron commended Egypt’s pivotal role in achieving regional stability, particularly in consolidating the ceasefire agreement in Gaza.
The call also addressed the updates in the West Bank, where President Sisi reiterated Egypt’s firm rejection of Israeli violations, emphasizing the need to support the Palestinian people, increase international pressure to halt these violations, and back the Palestinian Authority in fulfilling its obligations to its people.
The two leaders agreed that current efforts must lead to the launch of a comprehensive political process culminating in the establishment of an independent Palestinian state within the 4 June 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
Regarding the situation in Sudan, President Sisi stressed Egypt’s full support for the unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Sudan, and its rejection of any attempts to threaten its security.
He also expressed Egypt’s support for the efforts to end the war and restore peace and stability in the African nation. (MENA)
