Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi stated the establishment of a Palestinian state based on the June 4, 1967, borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital, represents the only guarantee for achieving lasting peace in the Middle East. Al-Sisi’s comments came during a Sunday meeting with Ronald Lauder, President of the World Jewish Congress, according to the president’s official spokesperson.
The meeting, also attended by Hassan Rashad, Head of the Egyptian General Intelligence Service, focused on means ofrestoring stability in the Middle East. Discussions centred on Egyptian efforts to implement the ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip, including the exchange of hostages and prisoners, and facilitating the entry of humanitarian aid.
Ambassador Mohamed El-Shennawy, the official spokesperson, said Al-Sisi stressed the need for all parties to act responsibly to ensure the preservation of the ceasefire. He warned that continued conflict and its expansion would “harm all parties without exception.”
Al-Sisi also affirmed the importance of commencing the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip, while ensuring residents are not displaced. He noted Egypt is preparing a comprehensive plan for this.
Lauder “expressed his appreciation for Egypt’s serious efforts to restore stability in the region” and “his support for President El-Sisi’s statements,” according to the spokesperson. Lauder also conveyed his eagerness to continue consultations with Egypt on related issues, “in recognition of its leading role in achieving peace in the Middle East and its wise efforts to promote stability.”
In a statement following the meeting, the World Jewish Congress president said he was pleased to visit Egypt and that the meeting with Al-Sisi was “excellent and beneficial.” He emphasized the importance of Egypt, stating, “the Egyptian-American relationship is pivotal to the stability of the region,” and that “the World Jewish Congress supports all efforts to maintain stability and peace in the region.”
Lauder also said he anticipates the Egyptian/Arab proposal regarding Gaza, stressing, “Peace is the hope and that it must be achieved through a two-state solution.”
