Cairo: Egyptian President Abdulfattah Al-Sisi and French President Emmanuel Macron underscored the urgent necessity for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, along with the facilitation of humanitarian aid and the release of hostages, during a joint press conference following their bilateral discussions.
According to Kuwait News Agency, the leaders held talks that culminated in several cooperation agreements, including elevating Egypt-France diplomatic relations to a strategic partnership. President Al-Sisi highlighted their in-depth discussions on regional and international developments, particularly the Gaza situation, and expressed mutual rejection of forced Palestinian displacement.
The Arab recovery and reconstruction plan for Gaza was reviewed, with both parties agreeing to coordinate efforts for an upcoming Gaza reconstruction conference in Egypt post-conflict. Al-Sisi stressed that Middle East stability hinges on a fair resolution to the Palestinian issue and an end to ongoing suffering.
The discussions also covered the establishment of a Palestinian state along the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital. The leaders addressed developments in Syria and Lebanon, emphasizing Syria's unity and territorial integrity and ending Israeli occupation of Syrian territories.
President Al-Sisi also mentioned water security, Egypt's unwavering stance on the Nile River, and regional developments in Sudan and the Horn of Africa. President Macron condemned the resumption of Israeli strikes on Gaza and called for an immediate ceasefire and hostage release, advocating for prompt and constructive negotiations.
Macron opposed the forced displacement and annexation in Gaza and the West Bank, viewing them as threats to regional security and violations of international law. He reiterated France's support for the Arab League's Gaza reconstruction plan and commended Egypt's efforts towards securing a ceasefire and hostage release.
President Macron affirmed Egypt as a strategic partner and expressed France's support for Egypt's 2030 development agenda, pledging to continue financial cooperation through French investments and bilateral European assistance.