Egypt’s Sisi meets Saudi foreign minister on ties, regional crises

Africa

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi held talks in Cairo on Monday with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan, focusing on strengthening bilateral relations and coordinating positions on a range of regional conflicts, the Egyptian presidency said.

The meeting underscored the close political and strategic ties between Egypt and Saudi Arabia, two of the Arab world’s most influential powers, at a time of heightened instability across the Middle East and the Horn of Africa.

According to a statement from the presidency, Sisi praised Saudi Arabia’s development drive and its efforts to promote economic prosperity under the kingdom’s reform agenda. He reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment to deepening cooperation with Riyadh across political, economic and security spheres.

Sisi also commended Saudi initiatives aimed at fostering dialogue and reconciliation in Yemen, particularly efforts to host a comprehensive conference bringing together southern Yemeni parties. The move is seen as part of broader regional attempts to ease tensions and advance a negotiated settlement to the long-running conflict in Yemen.

Prince Faisal, who arrived in Cairo on Sunday evening for an official visit, reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s determination to strengthen its “firm and historic” relationship with Egypt, the statement said. He emphasised the importance Riyadh places on continued political consultation and coordination with Cairo on issues affecting regional stability.

The talks took place against the backdrop of growing diplomatic activity in the region, as key Arab states seek to manage overlapping crises through dialogue and de-escalation.

Both sides exchanged views on developments in Sudan, where a brutal conflict between rival military factions has displaced millions and destabilised neighbouring countries. Egypt and Saudi Arabia agreed on the need to support efforts aimed at achieving a ceasefire and a political solution that preserves Sudan’s unity and sovereignty.

The meeting also addressed the situation in Yemen, Somalia and the Gaza Strip. On Gaza, the two sides stressed the urgency of reducing violence and pursuing a political process that would lead to lasting stability, while upholding international law and protecting civilians.

Regarding Somalia, Sisi and Prince Faisal underlined the importance of supporting the country’s institutions and territorial integrity, as it continues to battle insecurity linked to Islamist insurgents and political fragmentation.

Egypt and Saudi Arabia said they shared a common view that regional disputes should be resolved through peaceful means and dialogue, rather than military escalation, in order to safeguard state sovereignty and prevent further destabilisation.

The Cairo talks reflect the broader strategic alignment between Egypt and Saudi Arabia, which has deepened over the past decade. The two countries cooperate closely on regional security, energy policy and economic investment, while also coordinating positions within Arab and international forums.

Saudi Arabia remains one of Egypt’s key economic partners, with Saudi investments playing a major role in Egypt’s economy, particularly in real estate, energy and infrastructure. Egypt, in turn, is viewed by Riyadh as a central pillar of Arab political stability and a key player in regional diplomacy.

The meeting comes as Saudi Arabia pursues a more active diplomatic role across the Middle East and Africa, engaging with regional rivals and mediating in conflicts, while Egypt continues to position itself as a stabilising force amid ongoing turmoil in its neighbourhood.

Officials did not announce any new agreements following the talks, but both sides stressed that continued high-level engagement was essential to managing shared challenges.

Prince Faisal’s visit to Cairo forms part of ongoing consultations between the two allies, as regional powers seek to navigate a volatile geopolitical landscape marked by conflicts, humanitarian crises and shifting alliances.

Share This Article
Leave a Comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *