President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman convened in Cairo on October 15, 2024, to urge for de-escalation in Gaza and Lebanon, including the need for a ceasefire. Their discussions highlighted humanitarian concerns, regional stability, and the importance of establishing a Palestinian state. They also formalized the creation of a coordination council to strengthen bilateral relations and economic partnership amidst ongoing regional tensions.
On October 15, 2024, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi of Egypt and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia convened in Cairo to advocate for de-escalation measures in Gaza and Lebanon, emphasizing the urgent need for a ceasefire. Their discussions, conducted at the Al-Ittihadiya Palace, focused on enhancing bilateral relations amidst escalating regional conflicts and deteriorating humanitarian situations in both territories. During this high-level meeting, the leaders reiterated the critical importance of respecting Lebanon’s sovereignty and stability, while simultaneously stressing the need to halt escalating tensions that threaten the region’s peace and security. They endorsed the establishment of a sovereign Palestinian state, positing it as essential for the long-term resolution of the ongoing conflicts, cautioning that undermining the Palestinian cause would likely perpetuate violence in the area. In addition to the discourse on Gaza and Lebanon, Sisi and bin Salman deliberated on various regional matters including the security dynamics of the Red Sea, alongside the situations in Sudan, Libya, and Syria. Highlighting the historical and strategic ties between Egypt and Saudi Arabia, President El-Sisi described these relations as fundamental to navigating the current crises threatening the region. The meeting culminated in the signing of a landmark agreement to establish a Supreme Egyptian-Saudi Coordination Council, aimed at bolstering collaboration across multiple sectors, and a mutual investment encouragement and protection agreement designed to facilitate economic cooperation. El-Sisi expressed a commitment to furthering the integration of their economies through synergies in investment, trade, energy, transportation, and tourism. The Crown Prince conveyed the greetings of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, reasserting Saudi Arabia’s dedication to strengthening bilateral ties for mutual benefit. His visit followed significant discussions with Egyptian officials concerning substantial investments planned by Saudi Arabia, including an announcement of $5 billion by the Public Investment Fund aimed at spearheading collaborative projects that would enhance economic prospects between the countries.
The continuing conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon have exacerbated humanitarian crises in both regions, prompting international attention and calls for a ceasefire. Egypt and Saudi Arabia, pivotal players in the Middle East, have historically sought to mediate regional tensions and initiate peaceful resolutions. The recent diplomatic efforts reflect a united front against the growing instability influenced by various geopolitical dynamics, including the Palestinian cause, which remains a contentious issue in Arab relations. The meeting between President El-Sisi and Crown Prince bin Salman underscores their commitment to regional stability and signifies a deepening of their strategic partnership, which is essential for addressing multifaceted challenges within the Arab world.
The meeting between President El-Sisi and Crown Prince bin Salman represented a significant step towards fostering peace and stability in the Middle East by advocating for de-escalation in Gaza and Lebanon. The establishment of the Supreme Egyptian-Saudi Coordination Council is expected to enhance collaborative efforts in various sectors while addressing regional threats. The leaders’ emphasis on the sovereignty of Lebanon and the establishment of a Palestinian state indicates a strategic alignment in tackling major issues that contribute to regional conflicts. Their ongoing dialogue and commitment to investment reflect a robust relationship poised to confront future challenges effectively.
Original Source: www.egypttoday.com
