El-Sisi urges commitment to Lebanon ceasefire, concerted efforts to prevent renewed escalation

Egypt and Cyprus elevate relations to strategic partnership

President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides signed a joint declaration to upgrade relations between Egypt and Cyprus to a strategic partnership. This move reflects the historical ties between the two nations. The leaders held talks in Nicosia during a consultative meeting with Arab and European leaders and EU officials, discussing regional and international developments, including the Iranian crisis. El-Sisi highlighted cooperation in trade, investment, labor, tourism, and energy, and they reviewed progress on linking Cypriot natural gas fields to Egyptian infrastructure for domestic use and export. Christodoulides praised Egypt's efforts in combating irregular migration and called for greater EU burden-sharing given Egypt's role in hosting refugees. The discussions also covered regional developments, with El-Sisi outlining Egypt's efforts to reduce tensions and restore stability, particularly regarding the Iranian file. Christodoulides appreciated Egypt's regional vision and role. They also addressed developments in the Gaza Strip and West Bank, emphasizing the need for a full ceasefire, unconditional humanitarian aid delivery, and urgent reconstruction efforts in Gaza.