In a historic development, President Ebrahim Raisi of Iran and President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi of Egypt held a landmark meeting in the Saudi Arabian capital on Saturday. This marked the first encounter between the leaders of the two nations in 45 years, a significant diplomatic stride since the Islamic Revolution in Iran in 1979. During the meeting, President Raisi underscored the importance of unity among Islamic countries, particularly in the face of the Israeli regime’s aggression on Gaza. He expressed Iran’s commitment to expanding relations with Egypt, emphasizing that the Islamic Republic holds no barriers to fostering a deeper friendship with the North African nation.
President Raisi commended the recent peace meeting in Cairo on Gaza developments, viewing it as a positive initiative despite Western countries preventing it from concluding. President El-Sisi, in response, expressed Egypt’s unequivocal political will to establish genuine relations with Iran. He confirmed that relevant ministers have been assigned to pursue deepening ties between the two countries, signalling a commitment to fostering diplomatic, economic, and cultural connections. Touching upon the Palestinian issue, President El-Sisi emphasized Egypt’s unique perspective, stating, “Regarding Palestine, Egypt is a country that has suffered more than others from the consequences of this issue.” This acknowledgment underscores Egypt’s historical connection to the challenges faced by the Palestinian people, aligning the two nations in their pursuit of regional stability and resolution of long-standing conflicts.
As the leaders of Iran and Egypt depart Riyadh, the international community observes this historic meeting with optimism, hopeful that the renewed dialogue will contribute to peace, stability, and enhanced cooperation in the Middle East. The Riyadh summit sets a precedent for diplomatic solutions and increased collaboration in the region, paving the way for a more interconnected and harmonious future.
