NICOSIA, – President Abdel Fattah El Sisi met on Friday in Nicosia with Cypriot counterpart Nikos Christodoulides, where the two leaders signed a joint declaration on upgrading Egypt–Cyprus relations to the level of a strategic partnership, in a move that reflects the longstanding and distinguished ties between the two countries and their peoples.
Presidential Spokesman Ambassador Mohamed El-Shennawy said that President Sisi expressed his appreciation for visiting Cyprus, thanking the Cypriot side for the warm welcome and generous hospitality.
The spokesman added that President Sisi lauded cooperation between Egypt and Cyprus across various fields, affirming the importance of strengthening ties in a way that serves mutual interests of both countries, particularly in trade, investment, labor, tourism and energy.
The pair also tackled the latest updates on linking Cypriot gas fields to Egyptian liquefaction facilities for domestic use and re-export.
For his part, the Cypriot president welcomed Sisi’s visit and his participation in the consultative meeting that brought together a number of Arab and EU leaders, noting that the gathering provided an opportunity to exchange views on regional and international developments.
Christodoulides commended the growing momentum in Egyptian-Cypriot relations, highlighting Egypt’s efforts in combating irregular migration and stressing the need for the European Union to share the burden with Egypt in hosting large numbers of refugees.
He also praised the level of political coordination and consultation between the two countries on regional and international issues to enhance regional peace and security.
He also commended Sisi’s contributions during the meeting between EU leaders and regional partners, noting that Egypt’s vision on regional issues was highly appreciated by European leaders.
In this context, the two leaders reviewed regional developments, with President Sisi outlining Egypt’s endeavors to de-escalate tensions and restore regional stability, particularly in relation to the Iranian crisis.
Sisi and Christodoulides also tackled the latest updates in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, with both sides stressing the need for the full implementation of a ceasefire agreement, the unimpeded entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza and the swift launch of reconstruction efforts.
