Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi on Wednesday urged the international community to support rebuilding Gaza without displacing its residents, as reports emerged of internal Israeli disagreements over a US plan to relocate Palestinians.
Speaking at a press conference in Madrid alongside Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, Al-Sisi stressed the need for a full ceasefire in Gaza and reaffirmed Egypt’s rejection of any forced displacement.
The press conference followed high-level talks between the two leaders, during which they signed a declaration elevating Egypt-Spain relations to a strategic partnership. They also oversaw the signing of multiple memoranda of understanding across various sectors.
Sanchez affirmed Spain’s alignment with Egypt’s stance, pledging support for upcoming Arab summit decisions on Gaza’s reconstruction while ensuring Palestinians remain on their land. He also reiterated Spain’s commitment to the two-state solution.
Al-Sisi praised Spain’s support for the Palestinian cause and emphasized the importance of strengthening economic and investment cooperation, particularly in renewable energy, transportation, communications, and water resource management.
The two leaders also discussed regional stability, agreeing on the need to preserve Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity while condemning Israeli violations of Syrian airspace. Al-Sisi further stressed the importance of ending Israel’s occupation of the Golan Heights.
On Lebanon, Al-Sisi welcomed recent political developments, including the election of a new president and prime minister. He also underscored the need for Israel’s full withdrawal from Lebanese territory and adherence to the ceasefire agreement.
Concluding his remarks, Al-Sisi invited the Spanish King, Queen, and Prime Minister to visit Egypt for the opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum, reinforcing the historical ties between the two nations.
