Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi has reaffirmed the two-state solution as the sole viable path to achieving enduring peace and stability in the Middle East. This statement was made during his meeting with Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament, in Cairo on Thursday.
The discussions centred on enhancing relations between Egypt and the European Union (EU) and addressing regional issues of mutual concern. President Sisi emphasised the importance of preventing further escalation in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip. He highlighted Egypt’s efforts to broker a ceasefire, secure the release of hostages, and facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid to the besieged enclave.
Additionally, President Sisi underscored Egypt’s commitment to the unity, security, and stability of neighbouring countries, including Lebanon, Syria, Libya, Sudan, and Somalia. This reflects Egypt’s broader strategy to promote regional stability amidst various ongoing conflicts and political challenges.
Roberta Metsola expressed the EU’s deep appreciation for Egypt’s pivotal role in maintaining regional security. She stressed the EU’s interest in further enhancing coordination and consultation with Egypt on issues of mutual interest, acknowledging Egypt’s strategic importance in the region.
The backdrop to these discussions is the ongoing conflict that escalated on 7 October 2023, when Hamas militants launched an attack through the southern Israeli border, resulting in approximately 1,200 Israeli fatalities and nearly 250 individuals taken hostage. In response, Israel initiated a large-scale offensive in the Gaza Strip. As of Thursday, Gaza’s health authorities report that Israeli attacks have resulted in 46,006 Palestinian deaths and 109,378 injuries.
Egypt’s advocacy for a two-state solution aligns with longstanding international consensus, envisioning an independent State of Palestine alongside the State of Israel, based on pre-1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital. This approach is widely regarded as a framework for resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, aiming to satisfy the national aspirations of both peoples.
The meeting between President Sisi and President Metsola underscores the collaborative efforts between Egypt and the EU to address complex regional dynamics. Both parties appear committed to diplomatic engagement and supporting initiatives that promote peace and stability in the Middle East.
